Lasting change happens when people with disabilities are directly involved in shaping the systems that affect their lives. As Sara, Central District Program Director and Policy Lead, shared, when decisions are being made about things that impact their lives, they need to be included. At Hope Services, that belief comes to life through self-advocates like Trisha, whose journey from community participation to statewide advocacy reflects the importance of speaking up.

When Trisha joined Hope Services in 2024, it marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life—one filled with friendship, confidence, and purpose.

Before joining us, Trisha attended a special education program at Mission College. When the program closed during the pandemic, she lost not only a familiar routine but also the community she loved. When Sheri, Coordinator of the Day Program in San Jose, called to tell Trisha’s mom that a spot had opened at Hope, they were thrilled.

Since then, Trisha has rediscovered the joy of connection. She enjoys spending time with friends at the park, attending the annual summer picnic, and showing off her Halloween-themed nails. Her favorite band is *NSYNC, and she’s always ready to talk about music or sports—especially her plans to cheer for Team USA during the 2026 World Cup.

“If Hope Services wasn’t part of my life, I would feel lonely,” Trisha said. “At Hope, my friends make me happy. When my friend gave me a Valentine’s Day note, it made my day.”

But Hope has given Trisha something even greater—the platform to use her voice. Earlier this year, she joined fellow Hope participants in Sacramento for DISCO at the Capitol, an event organized by The Arc of California to promote self-advocacy and awareness, as well as the Keep The Promise rally. The group met with legislators, visited Governor Gavin Newsom’s office, and spoke up about the importance of protecting Medicaid funding.

“It was fun but serious,” Trisha reflected. “The [current administration] shouldn’t take money away from programs people need. If they did, I’d feel bad because that money helps me with my healthcare.”

Hope Services made sure participants had everything they needed for the trip—transportation, meals, and support—so they could focus on what mattered most: being heard. The day was filled with pride and curiosity.

Sara, who helped lead the trip, recalled how meaningful the experience was. “It was a hot day, but everyone stayed engaged. You could see how proud people were to be there and to speak for themselves,” she said.

One moment stood out. Tyler, a participant from Hollister who rarely speaks up during programs, found the courage to address legislators. “By the fourth meeting, he introduced himself and shared why Medicaid is important to him,” Sara said.

Trisha didn’t take the mic this time, but she’s already planning to next year. “I would tell people to use their own voice,” she said. “Hope Services helps us get organized and make sure we’re heard. Even when funding is uncertain, we have to keep showing up. It doesn’t end here.”

The event was also deeply personal for others. Kim, another participant, reflected on how her mother used to bring her to advocacy events when she was younger. “Her mom was so proud to see her there as an adult,” Sara shared. “Kim has an amazing voice and even wrote a safety plan to protect her team at Hope from ICE. That’s advocacy in action.”

As the day came to an end, one message stood out—a message that continues to guide the work of Hope Services and its self-advocates:

Advocacy is about representation and inclusion.

“It’s so important that people who are affected are the ones at the table,” Sara said. “Not about us, without us.”

For Trisha, that message captures what Hope Services means. “I see a future with more opportunities,” she said. “Speaking up is how we make that happen.”

Now more than ever, it’s important to stay engaged, remain informed, and make sure our voices are part of the conversation shaping our service system.