The Human Rights Authority is a division of the Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission that is statutorily empowered to investigate alleged violations of the rights of persons with disabilities, including persons with behavioral health needs, cognitive disabilities, physical disabilities and older individuals with disabilities. There are nine Authorities throughout the state and separated according to geographic regions. The membership of each Authority consists of nine volunteers. Three of these, by statute, are providers of disability services, one each from the areas of mental health, developmental disability services and rehabilitation/vocational services. The remaining six members are service consumers, family members of consumers or concerned citizens interested in advocating for disability rights. Members attend monthly meetings and serve on investigative teams. For further information, contact Teresa Parks at 309-671-3030 or Gene Seaman 309-671-3044 or submit and online application at https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/gac/HRA/Pages/Volunteers.aspx. The Human Rights Authority has improved disability rights protections for thousands of individuals. Join us today!