At Home and Community Options, we believe that everyone—regardless of ability—deserves to have a voice in shaping the policies and systems that impact their lives. That belief came to life when HCO launched its Grassroots Advocacy Taskforce, a standing committee that has grown into one of the agency’s most empowering and mission-driven efforts.
Open to all HCO stakeholders—including individuals we support, staff, families, and community allies—the Grassroots Advocacy Taskforce exists to educate, equip, and amplify the voices of those who are often unheard. Meeting throughout the year, the Taskforce works to create meaningful opportunities for people to engage in nonpartisan education and advocacy focused entirely on the mission of HCO.
From the very beginning, the heart of Grassroots has been its commitment to making advocacy both accessible and personal. The group provides hands-on learning experiences—including self-advocacy trainings, civic responsibility workshops, and voter education sessions—that build foundational civic knowledge. Participants learn how to register and prepare to vote, understand their rights at the polls, grasp how ideas become laws, communicate effectively with elected officials, and engage meaningfully in community life.
These workshops are paired with real-life experiences designed to build confidence and put knowledge into practice. Participants visit the Minnesota State Capitol, meet with polling officials, speak directly with policymakers, and role-play scenarios to better understand the voting process. We’ve hosted poll workers and elected leaders as guest speakers, organized candidate forums, and helped individuals prepare for their first time at the polls. For those needing additional support, we offer one-on-one guidance to help craft emails, prepare advocacy messages, and get ready for legislative visits.
One individual summed it up best: “It’s something self-advocates have to do because we are speaking up about what we feel is right.” That spirit of courage and conviction is what drives every Grassroots initiative.
Guided by the Grassroots Advocacy Planning Committee, a dedicated subcommittee made up of individuals served by HCO, staff, and volunteers, the group carefully plans each initiative with accessibility, relevance, and inclusion in mind. Their efforts have produced yearly advocacy calendars, civic engagement trainings, and one-on-one support to help individuals develop confidence and skills to participate in the democratic process.
That kind of support is at the very core of what HCO stands for: dignity, independence, and the right to live with purpose. Grassroots doesn’t just teach people how to navigate government systems—it helps them see their own power within those systems. For families and staff, it’s a chance to stand in solidarity, learning side by side with the people they support.
Importantly, all advocacy activities are rooted in HCO’s nonprofit mission. The Taskforce remains fiercely nonpartisan, ensuring that every training, meeting, and opportunity reflects the values and vision of our organization without aligning to any political party. The goal is simple: give people the tools to speak up and speak out—especially when policies threaten their rights, services, or futures.
As we celebrate 50 years of HCO, the Grassroots Advocacy Taskforce is a shining example of how far we’ve come—and where we’re going. By creating space for shared learning, collective action, and community empowerment, Grassroots isn’t just responding to issues—it’s shaping the future.
If you’re passionate about making a difference, we invite you to join us. The Grassroots Advocacy Taskforce welcomes all HCO stakeholders who want to learn, grow, and advocate for the greater good. Together, we can ensure that every voice is heard—and every life is valued.
For more information, contact Rhiannon Dungy at rhiannond@hco.org.
