A. Yes. Our classes are free for our advocates and we do our presentations for free.

A: No. We have activities during the day and have advocates doing classes and presentations. However, we don’t require people to come to any of the classes except those who sign up for the Advocate Leadership Academy.

A: We are a project of the Developmental Disabilities Council.

A: Since we are a project of the DDC, we are part of a state agency. Therefore, we receive money from the state for our operating budget. We also get some money from the federal government to help us meet some of our goals.

A: The deadline for completing an Advocate Leadership Academy application is generally up until the first class, as it is tough for newer participants to catch up after the orientation. To join, you have to apply via Zoom and then you receive a link to join. Once you join, we require you to fill out an application. See the Advocate Leadership Academy page to download an application. Team Leaders are decided by invitation only, which means we as a team pick the team leaders and then mail a notification to those people. If you have gotten a letter about being a team leader, you must fill out your W-9 three weeks before the class begins to allow for processing time. If you have questions, email us at daniel.ekman@state.nm.us or call us at (505) 670-5698.

A: No. The activities other than the Academy, such as the Keep in Touch group, are open to anyone who is interested. It is a great way to get to know people at the Center and see if it is the right place for you. It is also a way to have fun in a laid back environment.

A: Although our activities are free, advocates do not get paid for participating in activities. Only Advocate Leadership Academy Team Leaders are eligible to receive payment, since they are asked to help organize and run the Advocate Leadership Academy and mentor the fellows. People are welcome to participate in our activities or drop in and spend time at the Center for no cost, but they do not get paid for that time.

A: We are located at 625 Silver Av. SW Suite 100 Albuquerque, NM 87102. The office is located downtown near 6th and Silver. The closest landmark Cecilia's Cafe at 6th and Silver, which is across the street from our building.

A: A self advocate is a person who knows their rights and stands up for them. They are a person who wants to make their own decisions in their lives and believe in their ability to live as independent and satisfying a life as possible. They also help other people stand up for their rights and live as good a life as possible. If that sounds like you, get in touch with us.

A: Contact us at lindsay.sloan@state.nm.us or call us at (505) 670-5698. She will help you decide what presentation would be most appropriate and figure out the scheduling.

A: Email us at daniel.ekman@state.nm.us or call us at (505) 670-5698 or visit us and give us your idea. We are always open to suggestions and maybe we can make it happen. If you would like to volunteer or help run an activity, we have a volunteer activity form available.