Advocacy & Community Engagement

Advocacy drives our work, making sure adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have a voice, their rights respected, and access to the resources they need.

Contact People on the Go
Southern Chesapeake

Facilitator:
Clarice Bynum, 410-535-2413
Coordinator: James Orman

Empowering Individuals,
Strengthening Communities.

Advocacy is central to everything we do. Supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) means ensuring their voices are heard, their rights are protected, and they have access to the resources and opportunities needed to live full, meaningful lives.

People On the Go members building self-advocacy skills
Self-advocates participating in People On the Go
Self-advocates participating in a disability advocacy activity

People On the Go (POG)
Southern Chesapeake

POG is a statewide self-advocacy group run by and for individuals with IDD. The Arc Southern Chesapeake supports a Southern Chesapeake chapter, bringing together self-advocates from Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s, and Anne Arundel counties.

POG members believe that everyone should have the chance to live self-fulfilling lives and actively participate in their communities. The group empowers individuals to use their voices to be heard, influence change, and challenge discrimination.

People On the Go members participating in community advocacy

Through POG, members:

  • Attend monthly chapter and quarterly state meetings (with virtual options)
  • Learn about rights, choices, and self-advocacy
  • Teach others about disability rights and inclusion
  • Support law enforcement training through the Ethan Saylor
  • First Responders Training program
  • Meet with officials and legislators to advocate for change
  • Participate in rallies, conferences, and fundraising activities
  • Build friendships and enjoy social connection
People with IDD connecting through People On the Go

What We Advocate For

  • Self-advocacy and empowerment
  • Increasing employment and community participation opportunities
  • Improving transportation and accessibility
  • Eliminating discrimination
  • Fair training and compensation for direct support professionals
  • Expanding community living options and state funding
  • Increasing the visibility of self-advocacy and disability awareness
  • Disability training for law enforcement and first responders
  • Protecting the rights of all individuals with disabilities

Anyone with an intellectual or developmental disability is welcome to join POG. Services through The Arc Southern Chesapeake are not required to participate.

How to Get Involved

Reach out today to learn how you can join monthly meetings, become a self-advocate, and help create meaningful change. Every voice matters!

Contact People on the Go
Southern Chesapeake

Facilitator:
Clarice Bynum, 410-535-2413
Coordinator: James Orman