PAIR

Protection and Advocacy for Individual Rights

The goal of the Protection and Advocacy for Individual Rights (PAIR) program is to operate a system for the protection and advocacy of the legal and human rights of persons with disabilities residing in Georgia who are not eligible for the protection and advocacy services available through the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities (PADD) or the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) programs or through the Client Assistance Program (CAP) which advocates with respect to problems with the Division of Rehabilitation Services.

Below is a description of our planned emphasis for 2016 – 2017. Please click here to submit your comments, suggestions, or questions. We welcome your comments on our work throughout the year.

Goal 1: Protect individuals with disabilities in Georgia from abuse and neglect.

Priority 1: Investigate and address allegations of abuse or neglect, including the suspicious or unexplained deaths of persons with disabilities.

Priority 2: Advocate for appropriate home and community-based supports and services for persons with disabilities residing in facilities, with a focus on monitoring the State’s compliance with US v GA, the ADA and Olmstead.

Goal 2: To respond to allegations of discrimination and legal rights violations of persons with disabilities.

Priority 1:  Advocate for appropriate home and community-based supports and services, including healthcare and education, for people with disabilities at risk of institutionalization.

Priority 2: Advocate for people with disabilities residing in the community who are subject to legal rights violations and discrimination in any of the following areas: fiduciary relationships, local and state government, healthcare, housing, transportation, and employment.

Goal 3: Promote self advocacy and self determination of persons with disabilities in the community.

Priority 1: Empower people with disabilities, family members, and concerned citizens to advocate for competitive employment, educational, healthcare, and other services that are appropriate to the person’s needs.