Advocare

Fall 2007

A Publication of the West Virginia Advocates, Inc.

WVA Programs

Protection and Advocacy for Voter Access

Success Stories

The Protection and Advocacy for Voting Access (PAVA) program has conducted polling site accessibility surveys throughout the state. The survey findings indicate significant access barriers at numerous voting precincts statewide. WVA met with the Secretary of State and various County Commissioners, County Clerks, voting registrars, and other personnel to explain Help America Vote Act (HAVA), funding availability through the Secretary of State's office, to correct voting precinct violations, requirements and compliance deadlines of the HAVA, and WVA's role as designated Protection and Advocacy agency.

In April, 2007, Susanne Taylor Assistant Program Director of Employment Programs assumed responsibility for the PAVA program. Ms. Taylor will present training on Disability Awareness at the annual conference held by the Secretary of State's Office to train County Commissioners and election officials.

Ms. Taylor provided training on Voter's Rights at the People First Conference held at Canaan Valley in September.

WVA continues to provide outreach and worked in collaboration throughout West Virginia to educate the community regarding voter access and the right to vote.