Advocacy

Courageous Community Services is dedicated to supporting the self-advocacy efforts of individuals. We train individuals, parents, caregivers, and educators to become better advocates for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Courageous Community Services is excited to offer school-age special education advocacy services in collaboration with Bright Horizons Advocacy & Consulting.  Contrary to the popular myth, special education advocacy does not necessarily require a lawyer. However, effective education advocacy requires knowledge of applicable law at the state and federal level and an understanding of disabilities, educational theories and practices, and school environments. It also requires an understanding of the family experience and an ability to facilitate communication. We are proud to offer a parent/student advocate’s unique services to assist our clients. Laura Kuhlenbeck, Executive Director of Courageous Community Services, knows what it is like to sit at both sides of the table during special education meetings. She has served in the position of Special Education Supervisor for 16 years of her educational career. She is also the parent of a child and a young adult with a disability. Jennifer Kirby, Managing Advocate with Bright Horizons, is a former student with a disability with extensive professional training.

Together, both organizations’ teams offer over 50 years of combined professional experience in disability advocacy and services. We desire to support families in navigating the often-complicated special education process to bring assistance to students.

​Contact Laura Kuhlenbeck, Executive Director, for your advocacy needs at laurak@ccsohio.org.