ADVOCATES FOR DISABLED AMERICANS, VETERANS, POLICE, FIREMEN & FAMILIES
Our Advocacy Practice
Practice Areas
Practice Areas
Practice Areas
- Social Security Disability Benefits
- Workplace Harassment
- Lack of Warranted Accommodations
- Civil Settlements
- Disability Discrimination
- Lack of Accessibility
Our Approach
Practice Areas
Practice Areas
Every case is dealt with individualized care. No disability case is denied if the case meets the requirements under the law. We provide assistance for qualified disabled individuals from birth to senior, for individuals applying for Social Security Disability Benefits, for First Responders, disabled Veterans, Police and Firemen.
We hope that we can be of service to you and your family.
A Team in Your Corner
A Team in Your Corner
A Team in Your Corner
- The CEO, Darren Aquino, founded this organization due to his own challenges with his disability. He wanted to create an organization that would truly meet the challenging needs of the disabled population. Most of the members and volunteers are also disabled, making the organization very unique. Each individual in the organization has dealt personally with a situation involving their own disability or a family member's disability.
Legacy of Success
A Team in Your Corner
A Team in Your Corner
- Darren Aquino has been advocating for over 30 years and has a proven track record of success.
- We use that experience to help you down a path to the results you need.
- Check out our success stories, and then schedule your free phone consultation today.
Our Team
Darren Dione Aquino CEO & Founder
- Darren is a disabled American, who began advocating for himself and others in 1983, for Social Security claims and other disability rights.
- He established this non-profit in 1999, the premise of which is to uphold, defend, police, and restore the constitutional promise of the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act - the Federal law protecting the disabled.
- The mission statement, goals, and By-Laws of the organization are based on the guidelines of The Americans with Disabilities Act. All of the officers and volunteers of ADA VETs are required to take a sworn oath to adhere to and apply these guidelines while assisting disabled clients .
Dr. Mikhail Artamanov, National Chief Medical Officer
- Dr. Artamanov is certified in 6 major areas of medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Pain Medicine, Addiction Medicine, Brain Medicine, Functional Regenerative and Anti-Aging Medicine, and Independent Medical Examination, along with other board certification.
- Dr. Artamanov is a renown physician, recognized by the Medical community, and our organization is very fortunate to have him as part of our team.
- https://www.healthgrades.com/physician/dr-mikhail-artamonov-3j6k8
Frank Sportorno, Vice President
- Frank Spotorno offers a strong background of over 20 years as a successful business owner. He is the President of Alliance of Americans for America.
Sihar Aquino, Deputy Chief
- Sihar Aquino has been in the disabilities field for over 25 years working with a wide array of individuals with special needs from Early Intervention, infants and toddlers, and adults.
Matthew Gravagna, Assistant to the National Chief
- Matthew Gravagna is an integral member of this team. His talents are endless. He is not only our social media wizard, but is also very knowledgeable regarding disability rights.
- He is a tireless advocate and spokesperson for our cause.
Harry Pullen, Assistant Chief
- Harry Pullen is another integral member of this team. With expertise in communications, social media engagement, and more, he brings compassion and fire when it comes to fighting for those who need it.
Victoria Alexandra, Assistant to Assistant Chief
- Victoria Alexandra is the newest member to the team. She will be assisting Harry Pullen in the day-to-day internal operations. With a passion to help PWD, she brings charisma and personal experience with her.
Paula Estrada, Nurse Advocate
- Paula Estrada is our Nurse Advocate. She handles our service and emotional support dogs.
Johnny Fratto - Honorary Chief
- Johnny Fratto is appointed as an honorary chief advocate for disabled firefighters, veterans, police and families. He is currently running for Florida's Congressional District 26.
Members
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- Fernando Gaud
- Dr. Grennadiy Kvetney
- Steven Barnes
- Rita Monte
- Dr. Lana & Mr. Alex Gordon
- Nicholina Peccia
- Tony Martino
- Christopher Gravagna
- Aza Derman-Irizarry
- Brendan Aquino
- Julio Portilla
- Joseph Urgitano
- Joseph Picillo
- John Focaro
- Ann Marie Talanian
- Anthony Barada
- Joseph Pisacano
- Danny Velasquez
- Randall L.Mass
- Juan Pablo Andrade
- Gilberto Cruz
- Carmen Garcia
- Dr. Allan Wattenmaker
- Dr. Joseph D'Angelo
- Eric Irizarry
- Luigi Lusardi and Mauro Lusardi
- Christopher Peccia
- Imer Djekaj
- John Fratangelo
- John Gravagna
- Rachel Aquino
- Nihat Bessolt
- Samantha Sabel
- Leonard Bulaj
- Gary Melius
- Deborah Gravagna
- Nicole Fratangelo Bardi
- Elvine Topac
- Anthony Baratta
- Joseph Pisacano
- Harry Pullen III
- John Fratto
- Victoria Zayas
About Us
WE ARE THE NATION'S ONLY CONSTITUTION POLICE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
ADA/VETS provides oversight and is the watchdog of ADA Law (Americans with Disabilities Act). The organization advocates to ensure that the ADA is fully implemented. This organization was founded before the ADA became a law.
We spread awareness and work toward educating the general public to realize that disabled individuals and their families play a vital role in society.
A Focus on Results
The first step is for us to work with you and come up with a plan to get the results you need. Through our understanding of Disabilites law and your understanding of the circumstances, we will craft a path to success.
Get Started Today
Don't wait! Contact us for a free phone consultation. Let us help you figure out your best next steps are. The sooner you have a plan of action, the better your chances of taking the correct steps to get the results you want under the law.
Statement of Need
- Overview:
Individuals with disabilities in the United States face significant barriers to full participation in society, including discrimination, lack of access to essential services, and exclusion from the democratic process. Despite the protections afforded by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the XIV Amendment, these barriers persist, hindering the ability of millions of Americans to live fulfilling, independent lives.
Key Issues:
1. Discrimination and Legal Challenges:
- Many individuals with disabilities experience discrimination in the workplace, in schools, and in accessing public accommodations. Despite existing laws, enforcement is inconsistent, and legal recourse can be complex and costly.
- The need for legal representation is critical. Without proper legal support, many individuals are unable to challenge discriminatory practices and assert their rights.
2. Lack of Awareness and Education:
- There is a pervasive lack of awareness about the rights of individuals with disabilities, both among the public and within institutions that are required to comply with the ADA. This lack of knowledge leads to unintentional discrimination and insufficient accommodations.
3. Barriers to Voting and Political Participation:
- During elections, inaccessible polling places and voting technologies disenfranchise many individuals with disabilities. This exclusion from the democratic process undermines the fundamental principle of equal participation in governance.
4. Need for Inclusive Practices and Infrastructure:
- Public and private spaces often lack the necessary infrastructure to accommodate individuals with disabilities, limiting their ability to engage fully in community life. This includes physical barriers, such as lack of ramps and elevators, and digital barriers, such as inaccessible websites and software.
Impact on Individuals and Communities:
These barriers not only violate the rights of individuals with disabilities but also contribute to broader social and economic inequities. People with disabilities are more likely to experience poverty, unemployment, and social isolation, which further exacerbates their marginalization.
ADA/VETS' Response:
ADA/VETS is dedicated to defending the rights of individuals with disabilities and promoting their full inclusion in all aspects of society. Our comprehensive approach includes:
1. Legal Advocacy:
- Providing free legal guidance to individuals facing discrimination, helping them navigate the legal system and secure their rights.
- Advocating for policy changes that strengthen protections for individuals with disabilities.
2. Awareness and Education Campaigns:
- Conducting workshops, webinars, and public service announcements to educate the public and institutions about disability rights and best practices for inclusion.
- Developing and distributing accessible educational materials to increase understanding and compliance with the ADA.
3. Voting Access Initiatives:
- Working with local governments and election officials to ensure polling places are accessible.
- Advocating for the implementation of accessible voting technologies and practices to ensure every individual can participate in the electoral process.
4. Infrastructure and Accessibility Projects:
- Securing funding to improve physical and digital accessibility in public spaces, schools, workplaces, and online platforms.
Request for Support:
To continue and expand our vital work, ADA/VETS seeks funding to:
- Provide legal assistance to 500 individuals facing discrimination each year.
- Conduct 100 educational workshops and produce 50 PSAs annually.
- Advocate for accessible voting in all states during the upcoming election cycle.
- Implement infrastructure projects to improve accessibility in 50 public spaces.
Your support will enable us to make significant strides towards a more inclusive society, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have equal access and opportunities from birth to death.
Protecting adaadvocates.org's Civil Rights
Employment Discrimination
Employment discrimination can take many forms, including unequal pay, harassment, and wrongful termination. Our team is here to help you fight back and protect your rights in the workplace.
Police Misconduct
Police misconduct can have serious consequences, including false arrests, excessive force, and even wrongful death. Our team has the experience and expertise to hold law enforcement accountable for their actions.
Discrimination in Education
All students have the right to a safe and inclusive learning environment. If you or your child has experienced discrimination or harassment in school, our team can help you take legal action.
Housing Rights
Housing discrimination can make it difficult or impossible to find a place to live. Our team is committed to fighting housing discrimination and ensuring that everyone has access to safe and affordable housing.
Voting Rights
Voting is a fundamental right that should be protected for all citizens. Our team is dedicated to protecting voting rights and fighting against voter suppression.
Criminal Defense
If you have been charged with a crime, it is important to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side. Our team has a successful track record of defending clients and protecting their rights.
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