Information & Assistance

We are a team of advocates from around the state of Minnesota that provide information and support to individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and their trusted supporters. We help people find the resources they need for a better quality of life. We can assist you on the phone at on our Help Desk line at 1-866-797-1122 or you can submit our online Ask An Advocate form.

We listen to each person’s unique needs. We use our knowledge of resources and support systems to help find options. Our goal is to find the most individualized solutions.

How We Help

Our Advocates Can:

• Have meaningful conversations over the phone, email, or virtually
• Discuss options and help people make informed decisions
• Coach through situations, prepare for meetings, and debrief afterwards
• Understand individual needs and help find relevant resources
• Use person-centered thinking tools to guide discussions
• Lead workshops, presentations, and trainings tailored for self-advocates, people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), families, and professionals.

Our Advocates Cannot:

• Act outside of The Arc’s values or beliefs
• Force anyone to make choices or do things
• Provide legal advice, representation or do appeals
• Complete or submit county and federal program paperwork
• Offer emergency supports

What Makes Us Different

We serve people with IDD across the life span and across systems. We provide honest, quality information, and focus on building meaningful relationships. Our advocates are dedicated to exploring all possibilities, ensuring each solution is tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences.

Areas of Focus:

• Special Education
• Employment
• Housing
• Accessing County Services
• Community Supports
• Decision Making Resource/Guardianship
• Planning for the future and life transitions
• Self-Advocacy