Advocacy We are proud to join with the #bFair2DirectCare Coalition in advocating for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and other support staff to receive fair compensation for the vital work that they do. We greatly value the essential role or our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and recognize that their commitment, integrity, compassion and respect for the people we support are the keys to our success. The support the Direct Support Professional provides to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is critical. In addition to supporting people in essential day-to-day activities, a DSP provides opportunities for individuals to experience and engage in life enriching activities such attending a local ValleyCats game, or taking a trip to Lake George for the day. Agencies need to receive funding in order to be able to pay DSPs a salary that is competitive and commensurate to their responsibilities. Without an increase in state funding we do not have the funds to adequately increase salaries. JOIN US IN ADVOCATING! 1. ON SOCIAL MEDIA Interact with the bFair2DirectCare social media accounts by liking, sharing and commenting on posts and tweets! Please visit and interact on social media several times each week. Your support is critical to the success of this campaign. Please feel free to use the draft messages below as they are, or tailor them to your liking.Facebook: www.facebook.com/BFair2DirectCare ‘Like’ the Facebook page and post to Facebook! Twitter: @Fair2DirectCare ‘Follow’ the Twitter account and the tweet! 2. WRITE LETTERS Send letters to the Governor at: The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo Governor of New York State NYS State Capitol Building Albany, NY 12224 Send letters to Legislators: Go to the New York Families for Disability Rights (NYFDR) website: http://www.nyfamilyrights.org/advocate/contact-influencers/ There you will find your local legislators. There will be sample letters on this website detailing what to say. Please help in sending the message to New York State to step up and provide funds that value Direct Support Professionals and the people they care for. Together we can make a difference.