2025 Grassroots Advocacy Conference
The highlight of SourceAmerica's advocacy efforts is our Grassroots Advocacy Conference, which is held in our nation's capital each year. This annual conference brings together employees with disabilities, their families, and employers from SourceAmerica's network of nonprofit agencies. These self-advocates share their story with members of Congress and provide personal examples of how policy made in Washington, D.C. shapes the employment choices and opportunities of people with disabilities across our nation. This year’s conference will be held September 8-11, 2025.
What We Advocate For
At SourceAmerica, our goal is to create a more inclusive, productive, and innovative economic future for Americans of all abilities. Let's work together to achieve policy outcomes that create jobs and social and economic inclusion for people with disabilities.
Inclusivity in the Workforce
We advocate for a more accessible and inclusive future of work for people of differing abilities and amplify the voices of people with disabilities across the country.
Support for AbilityOne®
We support and implement the AbilityOne Program, which is among the nation's largest providers of jobs for people who are blind or have significant disabilities. The Program enhances America's economy by delivering nearly $4 billion in products and services annually to federal customers, including manufacturing combat uniforms for service members and performing mission-essential services that support military readiness.
Who We Advocate For
Our self-advocates are AbilityOne employees with disabilities who champion themselves and others with disabilities. They come from a variety of backgrounds and use the experience they gain during the conference to continue their own advocacy initiatives in their community.
Chris Collins
Helpful Hands, Inc. | Texas
Within a year of employment, Chris received a promotion, started working independently, and moved into his own apartment for the first time.
Marques Harris and Aretha Sims
TAC Industries | Ohio
For Aretha Sims and Marques Harris, working as cargo net fabricators offers stability and support for employment success.
Katie Galloway
InspiriTec | Kentucky
Katie says her AbilityOne job gives her a more extensive support system and has allowed her to be productive, have a routine, and provide better support to her family.
Advocacy Events
SourceAmerica advocates for people with disabilities and their employment opportunities year-round. Some additional events to note include Grassroots at Home, veterans receptions, and fly-ins.
Stay current on the ways SourceAmerica promotes employment equality and advocates for people with disabilities.