Advocate For Us

Advocating Today for a Better Tomorrow

As a nonpartisan organization, EPI is committed to advocating for the needs of our community. Whether it’s ensuring access to vital supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) or access to quality child care for families, we work hard to provide timely, accurate information.

There is Strength in Numbers

Advocacy is a community effort, and each of us can play a role. Whether you’re reaching out to policymakers, educating others, or simply amplifying stories of those impacted by advocacy efforts, every action counts. By supporting these initiatives, you contribute to a future where everyone can thrive.

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Current Advocacy Priorities as of 2/13/25

Right now, proposed Medicaid budget cuts could have devastating impacts to I/DD services, including:

• Shifting costs to states, leading to lower provider rates and reduced services
• Threatening home and community-based services (HCBS), increasing waitlists and institutionalization
• Putting individuals with I/DD at risk of losing critical supports

Learn More: Medicaid Resource Center

How You Can Take Action

• Make Your Voice Heard – Contact legislators through simple action alerts and encourage others to do the same! Take action now.
• Support Funding Gaps – Help bridge Medicaid funding gaps and ensure continued access to essential services. Support our mission.
• Stay Informed - Sign up for our electronic newsletter by clicking below and follow us on social media: LinkedIn  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Instagram
• Purchase Advocacy Apparel – Wear your support with pride! Shop for awareness apparel that spreads the message and supports our cause. Visit our store.

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Looking Ahead

As we advocate today, we’re building a society that respects and celebrates diversity, equity and inclusion. With continued advocacy, we can look forward to a world where every person has equal access to the support they need and the opportunities they deserve.

Resources for All:

• EPI's Publications and Reports: Explore our latest newsletters and reports to stay updated on our initiatives and the impact of our services.
• Follow EPI's Legislative Watch Blog: Stay up to date on key policy changes affecting disability services, Medicaid, child care and more.
• Find your Elected Officials:
  • Iowa Legislators: Identify and contact your state representatives 
  • Federal Legislators: Locate and reach out to your federal representatives

I/DD Specific Resources:

• Advocacy Toolkit from our national trade association, the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR), this toolkit provides essential guidance on advocating for I/DD
• Policy Priorities Learn more about the latest policy priorities we support from our state trade association Iowa Association of Community Providers (IACP)
• Iowa APSE - Visit the Iowa Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE) to explore efforts focused on advancing inclusive employment opportunities

Child Care Specific Resources:

• Iowa Child Care Resource & Referral - Learn what your community can do to support child care and ensure families have access to quality opportunities
• Iowa Child Care Coalition - stay informed on statewide efforts to strengthen child care policies and support providers and their communities