Families often contact us wondering how they can best advocate for their loved one in a variety of situations. When the advocacy need is related to community-based services, there are a few ways for families to stay in touch with information relevant to services for people with special needs, as well as remain connected to the people involved in the funding and delivery of those services. Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN) holds two meetings per month (on average) that are open for public comment and community member attendance; the Committee of the Whole meeting, and the OCHN Board of Directors meeting. These are two community forums that provide an opportunity to share your input related to available services in the community as well as voice any concerns you may have related to community-based services.
Public comment can be submitted in a few ways; you can attend the meetings in person and sign up to give your public comment orally during the meeting. If attending the meeting virtually, you can sign up ahead of time to provide public comment and will be given the opportunity to provide your public comment orally, using virtual participation. Lastly, you can utilize OCHN’s electronic form to submit your comment for the OCHN Board of Directors; this option does not require you to be present for the meeting.
The Arc of Oakland County advocates are available to assist you in understanding the various opportunities available to share your experiences related to services provided via Oakland Community Health Network. We are always just a phone call away!
OCHN’s Calendar (Committee of the Whole & Board of Directors Meetings) Link —
https://www.oaklandchn.org/calendar.aspx?CID=24
OCHN’s Board Meetings Public Comment and Public Feedback Link —
https://www.oaklandchn.org/173/Board-Meetings-Public-Comment-Public-Fee
THE TIME TO ADVOCATE IS NOW!
It’s important to communicate your story to your elected officials. Write it down, send it via email, and speak up whenever possible. Let them know what matters to you and any concerns you may have.
Find Your County Commissioner Link —
https://oakgov.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=4f848e8372074b6b864d919929127fe4
Find Your State Representative Link —
Find Your State Senator Link —