The ALLY Alliance

Statewide Self - Advocacy Alliance

See Us. Respect Us. Listen to Our Voices.

What is the ALLY Alliance?

The ALLY Alliance stands for A Life Like Yours Alliance.

It’s a statewide network of self-advocates and local self-advocacy groups working together to create change in Virginia.

A Life Like Yours is a phrase we use to remind others that people with developmental disabilities want the same things as everyone else—to live, work, and be part of our communities—with the support that fits our needs.

The ALLY Alliance is about connection, influence, leadership, and belonging. It helps self-advocates speak up, grow their leadership skills, connect with others, and be part of a movement that is stronger together. Whether you’re part of a local group or speaking up on your own, you are welcome in the ALLY Alliance.

Quick Facts about the ALLY Alliance:

22 Member Groups across Virginia
26 trained liaisons connecting local groups to the statewide movement
Nearly 500 self-advocates trained since the Alliance began
200 providers trained on inclusive services
Serving on 12 boards, commissions, or workgroups to influence system change

Why Form an Alliance?

When self-advocates lead—supported by allies, families, and communities—systems become more inclusive, and lives improve.

The ALLY Alliance connects local efforts, builds leadership, and strengthens our collective voice to advance equity, access, and opportunity across the Commonwealth.

Out Story

The ALLY Alliance began in 2018 when self-advocates from across Virginia came together to share their vision—and inspiration struck. With support from the Virginia Board for People with Disabilities in 2019, the group officially launched to strengthen self-advocacy across the state.

Our Mission

The purpose of forming an Alliance is to ensure that the voices of people with disabilities are the primary force for effecting change in Virginia.

The Alliance works to increase the availability of inclusive supports for people with Developmental Disabilities by working to influence changes to policy and expectations.

A Declaration of A Life Like Yours

Written & Adopted by the ALLY Alliance Liaisons self-advocates in April of 2010 across Virginia, this declaration is a powerful call for inclusion, choice, and equality. It affirms that people with developmental disabilities have the right to live, love, work, and belong—just like anyone else.

What the ALLY Alliance Offers:

Dynamic training programs and powerful opportunities for connection.

Training and Skill-Building – Trainings led by self-advocates on leadership and tools for self-advocacy.
Connection and Community – Opportunities to join local groups or connect with other self-advocates across Virginia.
Advocacy Tools – Support to take action, speak up, and lead change in your community.
Support for Local Groups – Technical assistance and resources to grow or strengthen local self-advocacy groups.