Welcome to our latest episode! Today, we introduce NYS Assembly Member Marianne Buttenschon from District 119. Before taking office, Dr. Buttenschon was the Dean of Public Service and Emergency Preparedness at Mohawk Valley Community College. She and her husband, Don, a retired school psychologist, have deep roots in their community. They have three grown children, six grandchildren, and for the past 30 years, have run the Buttenschon Christmas Tree Farm in Oneida County. Marianne joins us not only because she's in Steve's neck of the woods but also because she offers excellent advice for families facing challenges and those looking to make changes in the disability community.

"Division Creates Weakness" - When Steve was transitioning from his "day job" to full-time advocacy, he sought Marianne's advice on starting a nonprofit. Instead of spending months establishing a 501(c)3 and getting buried in red tape, Marianne suggested a surprising alternative that Steve found invaluable. She shared that all too often, nonprofits are divided, each in their own silo, when they could be much stronger if they rallied together. Tune in to hear what she recommended and how it has helped Steve elevate the family voice and spark changes with unexpected allies.

"Louder is Not Better, It Becomes Numbing" - Marianne shared effective ways to gain positive attention from state leaders by revealing what encouraged her to support the Ombudsman Bill. This important piece of legislation will connect people with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities (A/I/DD) to a neutral party to help them understand their rights and seek resolution for grievances. It has passed both the Assembly and Senate and awaits the Governor's signature. Marianne emphasized that loud, angry protests with lists of demands often strain relationships and sometimes impede what families are trying to accomplish. Curious about what catches her attention and compels her to act? Listen in to find out the key to getting legislators on your side without resorting to loud protests and other traditional advocacy efforts that tend to fall short.

"When people call my office, first, I apologize they had to call me to get resolution, and then we get to work." - Marianne offers candid advice on navigating system breakdowns and how to effectively engage with local legislators. Want to know the steps she recommends for establishing a working relationship with your local legislators? Tune in to hear more about Marianne's insights and advice for effective advocacy!

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If traditional advocacy has left you feeling unheard and undervalued, this podcast welcomes you to a new era of advocacy! Beyond the podcast, Heather and Steve also offer personalized consultations, workshops, and speaking engagements to support advocates globally. Reach out, find common ground, and let's empower positive change together.