40 Years of Collaboration

At the Michigan Disability Rights Coalition (MDRC), collaboration is central to our mission and approach. We recognize that meaningful change happens through partnership and collective effort, which is why we have developed strong collaborative practices across all our work.

If you share the belief that individuals with disabilities should have the opportunity to live fulfilling lives within their communities, enjoying equal rights, equity, and access to opportunities while being recognized as essential and valued members, embracing their complete identities in all aspects of life, and having the space for self-discovery, cultivating community, and fostering pride, we invite you to join us in utilizing our collective power

Our Collaborative Approach

MDRC partners with individuals, organizations, and communities to achieve our shared goals of disability justice and inclusion. Our collaborative work is guided by key principles:

  • Community-Led Advisory Groups: For every funded project, we establish advisory groups composed of individuals with lived experience and individuals with professional or community involvement. These groups guide our work, ensuring it remains grounded in community needs and experiences. When allowed by grant funding, we compensate advisory group members who are not present in a paid professional capacity for their time and expertise, recognizing the value they bring.
  • Cross-Disability and Cross-Identity Partnerships: We actively build relationships with organizations serving diverse communities, recognizing the importance of addressing intersectional identities. Our partnerships span disability organizations, LGBTQIA+ groups, racial justice organizations, and other community-based allies.
  • Representation in Leadership: Our collaborative efforts are led by individuals with disabilities, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We ensure that people most directly affected by our work are in decision-making roles.

Sharing Our Resources

MDRC believes in generous collaboration through tangible resource sharing.

  • Shared Space: We offer our conference room to partner organizations free of charge, creating accessible meeting spaces for community groups.
  • Fiduciary Support: We have served as a fiduciary for many grassroots organizations and state entities, helping new and developing initiatives manage funds and employ staff while they build capacity.
  • Knowledge Exchange: We freely share our expertise and resources, offering most of our trainings at no cost to community organizations, individuals, and families.
  • Fund Development Support: We assist partner organizations with grant-writing initiatives, supporting their ability to secure funding for important community work.
  • Collaborative Programming: We actively seek opportunities to develop joint programs with community partners, combining our strengths to create more effective initiatives.

Bringing People with Disabilities to the Table

MDRC is committed to ensuring people with disabilities have a seat at decision-making tables:

  • Leadership Development: We support individuals with disabilities to develop their leadership skills through structured programs, mentorship, and real-world leadership opportunities.
  • Meeting Preparation: We help people with disabilities prepare for important meetings, boards, and committees by reviewing materials, discussing key points, and practicing effective communication strategies.
  • Family Support: We provide resources and guidance to families of people with disabilities, helping them navigate systems and advocate effectively for their loved ones.
  • Practical Accommodations: We ensure meaningful participation by arranging for necessary accommodations, personal assistants, and accessible meeting formats.
  • Building Confidence: Through our programs, we help individuals develop the confidence needed to share their expertise and perspectives in collaborative settings.