Leadership in IDD

 

Perspectives Commentary from the field

Effective Strategies for Legislative Advocacy Dion White, MBA, FAAIDD CEO, Center for Life Resources Brownwood, Texas   Advocacy for and with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) has become increasingly crucial in our society as social media and technological advancements contribute to social isolation. As the time available for advocacy may seem to diminish it is even more imperative that we collectively raise our voices about the challenges faced daily by people with IDD.   Effectively advocacy engages with local, state, and national elected officials who play a pivotal role in developing support systems serving people with IDD. It is essential for advocates to prepare clear and concise information for policy makers about their concerns, challenges, and ideas for potential solutions.   Highlighting successful services and supports for expansion and replication provides policymakers with examples of what you want to achieve. Follow-up phone calls, regular appointments, and sharing real-life experiences are all effective ways to engage elected officials.    Broad positive change often begins with individual efforts. I challenge everyone to become that one person and start advocating with their elected officials today. By doing so, we can collectively make a difference in the lives of people with IDD.

Notables  Recent awards, accolades, appointments, and other honors.

Grace Francis, PhD, FAAIDD, Awarded Switzer Research Fellowship Grant  Dr. Francis awarded National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR, ACL) grant for her study, Examining the Effect of Bioecological Factors on Expectations for Community Living and Participation: An Exploratory Multi-Method Investigation.

Karyn Harvey, PhD, FAAIDD, presented a webinar, “Trauma and Healing: An Overview” hosted by the AAIDD Religion & Spirituality Interest Network.

John Keesler, PhD, presented a webinar, “How to Talk About Trauma Informed Care, Faith, and Spirituality” hosted by the AAIDD Religion & Spirituality Interest Network.

Michelle Boulanger Thompson, PhD, and Yumi Shirai, PhD, among others presented a webinar, “Spirituality and Healing through the Expressive Arts”  hosted by the AAIDD Religion & Spirituality Interest Network.

Notables  Recent awards, accolades, appointments, and other honors Perspectives Commentary from the field

AAIDD is looking to feature notables and perspective pieces from our members in the field! Send us your commentary to be featured in a future Leadership in IDD Newsletter.

Produced by AAIDD, this monthly digest features the recent (first made available within last 3 months) and emergent (will be available within the next 4-6 weeks) work of AAIDD members only. Journal articles, while important, are not featured in this publication.  View the archive of the Leadership in IDD newsletter here. Click here to submit your work to be featured.

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