Accountability and doing what is Right!

I don't have training in writing per say :-), but decided to start writing anyway. Mostly to gain awareness of Asperger Syndrome, children and adults on the autism spectrum. My son (and myself at times) have experienced horrible things from ignorance and preconceived notions.

I never gave up on my son and I continue to break through those walls of excuses to find support and opportunities for him.  Some people think I'm pushy and even emotional at times.  But where would he be if I didn't do all that I have?  I know he would not have graduated from high school, let alone succeeding in college. 

Every time someone rolls their eyes, talks about my son behind my back or makes excuses; it makes me push more and fight harder.  Not what some 'service providers' would have hoped for when they tried to brush me off.   My response to their criticism is that it's their JOB to provide these services and support for those who need a little help and encouragement. 

These jobs, that are paid for with our tax dollars, are not just a 'free resource'.  These are state and federally funded resources set up with the purpose of helping people become productive citizens in our society.  As opposed to a burden on our society. 

I'm not asking for favors or special treatment.  I'm asking them to do their jobs.  Jobs that again, our tax dollars pay for.  I'm also asking that they provide the services and support that the State and Federal websites clearly state are available to all who qualify.  Really?!   I've sent the link attachments along with specific questions and request to vocational rehabilitation workers, as one example, many times over the past 4 years.  With little or NO response; let alone acceptance of any responsibility to help provide the services they are suppose to.  Such as employment assistance, training and support.   Where is the accountability in these jobs and organizations?!

My son wants to work and learn to be independent.  He doesn't want a hand out or disability money.  He just wants the assistance that is suppose to be provided to encourage employers to give these young people a chance and opportunity to succeed.  Such as a job coach and training that doesn't cost the employer time or money.  Just the support both the client and employer are entitled to.  At least according to the state and government websites and documentation I've found.  Nowhere does it say that voc rehab, as just one example, will help you if they want to or if they feel the client is worth it in their personal opinion. 

Besides being accountable in these service provider organizations; Why can't people just do what is Right?  Not just do what they feel like or what they assume to be worth the effort.  I don't believe that's part of their job.  There are 'guidelines' that seem to be just 'words' on paper or a website.  Nothing more in my 20 years of experience dealing with the 'system'.  It is very frustrating, but has made me more determined! 

Recently I was told, once again, that I should just give up.  That I can't expect to count on anyone else to help my son or I.  Believe me, it would be easier.  But does that mean I should give up? No, not in my opinion.

For one I'm not ever giving up on getting my son anything and everything he deserves.  I also feel that 'giving in' to the system by giving up the fight, is one of the reasons people in these positions and organizations are not held accountable.  The frustration and bureaucracy gets to be too much for most people, so they give up.  I have seen it so many times.  I have met several mothers just like me who can't get the services and support their children need to get good employment.  A necessity to their being independent.  My heart goes out to them! 

We are not selfish people by any means.  We only want what is Best for our children.  Just like any other parent should want for their children.  Children who did not ask to be born.  Let alone be born with a disability or disadvantage of any kind.  They did nothing to deserve any of it and it is our job as parents to protect and provide for our Innocent children.  They are Innocent victims of the 'system' and our society.  Special needs parents are not pushy or unreasonable.  We are being accountable and doing what is 'right' in the 'job' we choose to take on.

I am determined to help not only my son, but all the children and young adults like him.  To give them all the opportunities and support they not only need but deserve.  It has become extremely apparent that it has to start with demanding accountability within the 'system'!

So where do I start; who do I contact now?  Where do we as parents go from here?  Advice and opinions are openly accepted and greatly appreciated!
http://velvetoversteel.blogspot.com/2010/05/accountability-and-doing-what-is-right.html