Every January, when the Georgia General Assembly reconvenes under the gold dome, several disability organizations host Advocacy Days—opportunities for people with disabilities to meet state leaders and advocate for themselves and their communities. Family members, professionals in the disabilities sector, and other advocates are also encouraged to attend.
Frazer CEO DeAnna Julian is well-versed in these advocacy efforts. As a board member and president-elect of SPADD (Service Providers Association for Developmental Disabilities), she collaborates with other experts to shape disability policy. Advocating at the state capitol is part of her mission to improve the quality of life for the adults Frazer supports—and all Georgians with developmental disabilities.
During last year’s General Assembly, DeAnna and fellow advocates successfully pushed for rate increases based on a full-scale rate study of services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The study examined such things as how much Medicaid pays providers like Frazer—and our staff—to support the individuals we serve. Are salaries keeping pace with the rising cost of living? Through new legislation, the hope is that rate studies will now occur every four years.
Although legislation passed a historical increase for I/DD services, many services—particularly day services that engage individuals in the greater community, a key part of Frazer’s work—remain underfunded. Advocacy work continues to ensure all families and individuals have the support and services to live, work, and play in their communities.
Another top advocacy priority for the 2025 session is the creation of an I/DD Commission, bringing together multiple entities and organizations to develop solutions, support new legislation, and allocate funding more effectively. Georgia’s similar mental health commission has already demonstrated the impact of this model, producing positive outcomes over the past five years. “This is something we can all get behind,” says DeAnna. “It’s not a monetary ask. It’s—can we create a proactive team to assess I/DD services and drive meaningful improvements.”
Finally, there’s an urgent need to reduce the Medicaid waiver waitlist, which currently leaves over 7,000 Georgians waiting years for critical services. These waivers fund essential supports, such as Frazer’s Supported Employment and Community Access programs, which help individuals with disabilities fully participate in their communities.
How Can YOU Help?
If you’re passionate about improving the quality of life for Georgians with I/DD and the professionals who support them, join an advocacy day, such as those hosted by GCDD (Georgia Council for Developmental Disabilities), or reach out to DeAnna to find out how you can get involved: d.julian@frazercenter.org.
Waivers and Wages Advocacy Day
Wednesday, February 12, 2025 • 9 AM – 1:30 PM
I/DD Commission Advocacy Day
Wednesday, February 26, 2025 • 9 AM – 1:30 PM