About the Coalition

Rep Jernigan and Louise McKown

The Tennessee Disability Coalition is an alliance of organizations and individuals joined to promote the full and equal participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of life.

To support this mission, the Coalition offers the following programs:

 

  • Public Policy Program
  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Network
  • Family Voices of Tennessee
  • Benefits to Work
  • Tennessee Autism Plan
  • Project BRAIN
  • Discretionary Small Grants Program

We rely on grassroots support from individuals and families across the state. The work of self-advocates and small local groups is critical to the success of our combined goals. In addition to their contributions, we have a formal membership of 47 organizations.

The Coalition and its member organizations represent Tennesseans of every age, economic background, political persuasion and disability. Some are disability-specific groups like the Autism Society of Middle Tennessee while others are cross-disability and may focus on specific issues such as independent living, employment, or assistive technology. Each is committed to collaboration toward improving the lives of all Tennesseans who are touched by a disability.

We ask that a representative from each of our member organizations serve on our Board of Directors. This governing body serves an essential role in guiding our current efforts.