Sangha Unity Network
Sangha Unity Network was awarded a Grassroots Project grant from the Human Services Research Institute (HSRI). This national initiative, supported by the Administration for Community Living, invests in cross-disability coalitions that put people with disabilities at the center of systems change. In 2025, SUN led the Rise Up Speak Out Coalition, a community-driven effort to strengthen advocacy efforts, promote inclusive community practices, and increase visibility of self-advocates across Georgia.
About The Coalition
The Rise Up Speak Out Coalition is a group of self advocates and their allies and supporters working to create welcoming and inclusive communities while strengthening self advocacy and the visibility of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We are currently working in the Ringgold, Macon and Tifton communities.
The Rise Up Speak Out Coalition envisions communities where all people are welcomed as equal citizens who contribute, collaborate and partner, regardless of one’s background or abilities. Together, we work towards full inclusion so every voice is heard and every person is visible in our communities.
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All people with I/DD should be able to live and participate in their communities.
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We believe every person has gifts and talents that must be welcomed, celebrated, and acknowledged in the heart of the community.
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We value person-centeredness, collaboration, agency, innovation, and leadership.
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We value person-centered thinking and approaches while centering the services around recognizing, celebrating, and supporting the qualities of the people we support.
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We believe in the importance of understanding and applying the latest best practices to build beloved communities.
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We believe in promoting a culture of creativity and innovation where everyone is encouraged to think outside the box when it comes to providing services and support.
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We believe all people, including people with disabilities, have inherent qualities which benefit our society. We also believe people will attain whatever goals they pursue when well-supported.