Donovan Foundation for Advocacy and Inclusion
Clear information. Strong advocacy. Better systems.
We help people understand disability services, protect their rights, and navigate complex programs with confidence.
Our work includes:
• Disability Services Network
• Public education and outreach
• Training for providers and state staff
• Speaking on disability rights and systems design
• Helping families understand eligibility, services, and appeals
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Disability Services Network
A national information hub that explains disability services, rights, programs, and policy in plain language.
Families, providers, and state staff use it to stay informed and understand what is changing.
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About DFAI
Donovan Foundation for Advocacy and Inclusion
The Donovan Foundation is a nonprofit organization focused on improving disability services and protecting the rights of people with disabilities. Our work is grounded in the belief that people deserve clear information, meaningful choice, and systems that treat them with dignity.
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We help families, providers, and state staff understand complex programs and policies, including eligibility, waivers, education supports, housing issues, employment services, appeals, and Olmstead.
Our goals are simple:
• Make disability information accessible
• Strengthen public understanding of rights
• Improve transparency and accountability in service systems
• Support inclusive, person-directed policies
• Provide practical tools that help people navigate services
SPEAKING AND TRAINING
At DFAI, we specialize in helping states, providers, and advocacy organizations navigate Medicaid complexities with precision and impact.
Founded by Jennifer Babcock Perkins, M.S., a nationally recognized expert in Medicaid population health, our firm offers tailored solutions that drive meaningful change.
Request Jennifer Perkins
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Jennifer Perkins is a national disability policy leader, former Deputy Director of Performance and Innovation for Nebraska DHHS, former Senior Fellow with CMMI, and strategic advisor on state and federal disability systems. She speaks to organizations across the country about disability rights, systems reform, and how to design programs that support people well.
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Topics include:
• Understanding disability service systems
• How to navigate eligibility and appeals
• What Olmstead requires in practice
• Strengthening public comment participation
• Building equitable service systems
• How to improve oversight, critical incident response, and quality
• Person-directed supports without losing rights
• Provider training on rights, privacy, and accountability
• Systems design for state staff and leadership teams
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Audiences:
• State agencies
• Providers
• Advocacy organizations
• Universities and training programs
• Disability coalitions
• Boards and leadership teams
• Families and community groups
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Request availability
Use the form below to share your needs, timeline, and preferred topics.