CUP Campaign

Courage to Use Your Power (CUP Campaign)

Empowering Voices. Building Community. Creating Change.

The CUP Campaign — Courage to Use Your Power — is a statewide initiative led by the Maryland Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) and Centers for Independent Living (CILs) across Maryland.

More than a campaign, CUP is a movement centered around advocacy, empowerment, accessibility, and community collaboration. Its mission is to encourage individuals with disabilities, community leaders, organizations, and supporters to recognize and utilize their power to create meaningful change throughout Maryland and beyond.

What Does CUP Mean?

CUP stands for Courage to Use Your Power.

The campaign encourages individuals to:
• Advocate for accessibility and inclusion
• Engage in community leadership
• Build stronger partnerships and support systems
• Amplify the voices of people with disabilities
• Create lasting impact through collective action
The CUP Campaign focuses on moving beyond traditional advocacy by inspiring individuals and organizations to actively participate in shaping policies, opportunities, and accessible communities.

Why This Campaign Matters

True systemic change happens through collaboration.

The CUP Campaign brings together:
• Community organizations
• Advocacy groups
• Educators
• Leaders
• Supporters
• Individuals with lived experience
The CUP Campaign focuses on moving beyond traditional advocacy by inspiring individuals and organizations to actively participate in shaping policies, opportunities, and accessible communities.

The Independent Living Anthem

As part of the movement, the campaign also highlights the Independent Living Anthem, which represents the heart and spirit of the Independent Living movement.

The anthem serves as a reminder of:
• Resilience
• Empowerment
• Advocacy
• and the continued pursuit of accessibility and independence for all.

Partnering for Impact

COWOC proudly supports initiatives that strengthen communities through collaboration, opportunity, advocacy, and empowerment.

We believe campaigns like CUP help create meaningful conversations and partnerships that lead to long-term impact for individuals and families across our communities.

Organizations interested in collaboration, partnership opportunities, or learning more about the campaign are encouraged to connect with the Maryland Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC).

* Maryland Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC)

Phone: (240) 452-1952

For more information about the CUP Campaign and Independent Living initiatives, please contact the SILC team directly.

How can you help Us ?

Interested in connecting with COWOC or want to get in touch with us? We welcome partnerships and inquiries from individuals, businesses, and organizations who share our commitment to community empowerment and support. Whether you have ideas for collaboration, want to volunteer, or need more information about our programs, we’d love to hear from you