The Voice of Inclusion
Advocacy and Legislation
At the heart of the National Association of Societies for the Care of the Handicapped (NASCOH) lies a commitment to systemic change. For over 55 years, our primary objective has been to lobby and advocate for disability-friendly legislation and policies. We believe that true empowerment is not found in charity, but in the robust protection of human rights through enforceable laws. As an umbrella body for more than 50 organizations of and for persons with disabilities, NASCOH provides a unified, powerful voice that ensures the community is not just a subject of policy, but a primary architect of it.
The Philosophical Foundation: From Pity to Rights
Our mission is to promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities through a well-coordinated and effective membership network. We believe in a society that is not only respectful of difference but actively accommodating of it.
Our guiding light is a vision to be the leaders in the holistic empowerment of people with disabilities. We define holistic empowerment as the active and respectful participation of persons with disabilities in all life spheres—political, economic, social, and cultural.
Every action is guided by four core principles: respect for each person’s dignity and autonomy, equity through tailored and fair support, unity in advancing a strong collective voice for the disability movement, and mutualism by promoting collaboration and shared success among members and partners.