Alumni Community Network – CenterED Resources
Year 1 of 1: 1/1/2026 - 9/30/2026
Statement of Need
North Carolina does not have an organized network of developmental disabilities advocacy leaders made up of North Carolinians that are graduates from advocacy and leadership development programs. Strong, sustained advocacy is critical to addressing systemic challenges yet advocates often lack the networks and resources to effectively influence policy and practice. By responding directly to alumni feedback, an ALP alumni program is uniquely positioned to fill gaps and strengthen the collective voice of disability leaders across the state.
- Establish, maintain, and engage an advocacy leaders network made up of graduates of the Ability Leadership Program of North Carolina (ALP-NC) leadership development program.
- Graduates of the ALP-NC leadership development training will use their skills to effectively advocate for themselves and others (e.g., speak to policy and other decision-makers, give testimony, etc.) at local state and federal levels to promote systems change.
Initiative Goals
Expand ALP-NC alumni engagement by offering structured learning opportunities, regular forums for collaboration, and spaces to foster sustained community among Leaders. Further strengthen alumni advocacy skills, deepen connections, and amplify the collective voice of people with disabilities and their allies. The Alumni Community Network (ALP ACN) will become a coordinated coalition for grassroots advocacy and a dynamic hub for resources and education that sustain leadership and amplify momentum. Centered Resources will:
- Strengthen the capacity of ALP-NC alumni to sustain and expand their advocacy leadership
- Build a coordinated statewide network of disability leaders to advance systems change.
- Foster a sense of belonging and mutual support among alumni to reduce isolation and increase collective impact.
- Provide accessible, ongoing education and resources that keep alumni engaged and equipped for advocacy.
- Create a source of competitive employment for professional advocates, instructors, facilitators, and mentor coaches who identify as having lived disability experience.
Program Objectives
- Launch the Alumni Community Network with dedicated staff, an Advisory Board and a functional website.
- Host at least five live continuing education webinars, with recordings made available through the website for ongoing access.
- Convene a minimum of five virtual networking meetings and two in-person gatherings to strengthen alumni connections.
- Engage the ALP graduates in at least one ALP ACN program resource such as continuing education, networking event, website resource support, or office hours).
Who can I contact for questions?
NCCDD: Melissa Swartz, Systems Change Manager,
Content updated January 2026