Annual Report

A Message from the Executive Director

2024 has been a year of growth, action, and support for Advocating Change Together (ACT). As we continue building momentum toward ACT’s 50th anniversary in 2029, we reflect on the incredible progress we’ve made in promoting self-advocacy, disability leadership, and community inclusion. This year, ACT strengthened its commitment to disability justice, expanded the Self-Advocates Minnesota (SAM) Network, and trained new leaders through the ACT Olmstead Academy.

One of our proudest moments this year was hosting the 2nd Annual Disability Pride Festival in July. This festival brought together self-advocates, community members, and allies to celebrate disability culture, amplify disabled voices, and continue pushing for equity and inclusion. The overwhelming support and participation reaffirmed the power of our movement.

In addition to celebrating our successes, we have also been strategically planning for the future. Throughout 2024, ACT engaged in a comprehensive strategic planning process to lay the groundwork for our next five years. The ACT Forward 2025-2029 Strategic Plan outlines key priorities, including expanding the self-advocacy movement, strengthening our organizational foundation, and securing long-term sustainability. This plan will guide our efforts as we continue to build a strong, disability-led movement that will carry us into our 50th anniversary and beyond.

As we look to the future, our work remains vital. The ACT team and our dedicated network of self-advocates continue to push for policy change, systemic improvements, and stronger community connections. We are proud of what we have accomplished together and are excited for the next chapter in our movement.

With gratitude,

Jennifer Walton
Executive Director - ACT

2024 Highlights and Achievements

  • In July 2024, ACT hosted its 2nd Annual Disability Pride Festival, bringing together self-advocates, community leaders, and allies to celebrate disability culture, challenge ableism, and build connections. This year’s event featured:

    • Over 500 attendees from across Minnesota.
      Speakers and performers from the disability community, sharing stories, music, and advocacy messages.

    • Workshops on disability rights, accessibility, and leadership development.

    • Resource booths from advocacy organizations, disability service providers, and community groups.

    • Art and culture exhibits celebrating the creativity and contributions of disabled artists.

    This festival continues to grow each year, reinforcing our belief that disability pride and justice deserve a visible and celebrated place in our communities.

  • The SAM Network remains a cornerstone of self-advocacy in Minnesota. In 2024, ACT worked with SAM leaders to lay the groundwork for expansion in 2025. This included:

    • Strengthening collaboration among the six SAM regions across Minnesota.

    • Hosting statewide self-advocacy training sessions and leadership summits to build leadership and community connections.

    • Beginning preparations for the 2025 ACT Statewide Self-Advocate Conference, which will bring self-advocates together to connect, learn, and organize for change.

    Looking ahead, 2025 will mark an exciting period of growth for the SAM Network, as we expand our reach and increase opportunities for self-advocates across the state.

  • The ACT Olmstead Academy continues to train self-advocate leaders to advance community integration. This year:

    • 24 new leaders participated in the 9-month leadership program.

    • Teams completed local community integration projects, advocating for housing, employment, and accessibility improvements.

    • Graduates emerged as leaders in disability advocacy, taking on key roles in their communities.

  • ACT worked alongside self-advocates and policymakers to:

    • Advocate for ongoing state funding for self-advocacy programs.

    • Support the implementation of Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan, ensuring compliance with disability rights laws.

    • Promote legislative initiatives that advance disability justice and community inclusion.

  • As part of the ACT Forward 2025-2029 Strategic Plan, we focused on:

    • Refreshing ACT’s branding, including a new logo and website.

    • Launching a quarterly newsletter to keep supporters informed.

    • Developing a long-term funding strategy to sustain ACT’s impact.

Financial Overview

ACT remains committed to financial transparency and sustainability. Thanks to the support of state funding, grants, and individual donors, we continue to expand our reach and impact.

2024 Funding Sources

  • State & Federal Grants: 65%

  • Individual & Corporate Donations: 20%

  • Program Revenue & Fundraising Events: 15%

2024 Expenses

  • State & Federal Grants: 65%

  • Individual & Corporate Donations: 20%

  • Program Revenue & Fundraising Events: 15%

Bar graph showing expenses with three categories: State & Federal Grants, Individual & Corporate Donations, and Program Revenue & Fundraising Events.

Looking Ahead: ACT’s 2025 Goals

As we continue building momentum toward ACT’s 50th anniversary in 2029, we are setting bold goals for the future:

  • Expand Self-Advocacy – Strengthen the SAM Network and increase outreach to new self-advocacy groups.

  • Build Awareness & Support – Grow ACT’s presence through advocacy campaigns, Disability Pride events, and community partnerships.

  • Ensure Long-Term Sustainability – Secure state funding and new financial partnerships to support ACT’s mission for years to come.

Four strategic priorities for ACT depicted in colored rectangles.