September 2024
In this Edition:
- Job Openings in the Disability Field
- Council Meetings 2024
From Our Chief Strategy Officer
Dear readers,
Has the information we’ve shared over the past year been helpful to you? Are there topics you wish we’d cover? Tell us in this 5-minute survey!
We use the results to guide what we cover in this newsletter, Breaking Ground magazine, on social media, and in all our other communications. We also report the results to the federal agency that funds our Council to help show the impact of our work.
I’ll keep this note short and sweet, as we have a newsletter chock full of content! Fall is always a great time for disability events. And with the election in November, disability organizations are focused on making sure you have access to vote. Now is the time to make sure you are registered to vote and know your rights!
As fall officially arrives, I hope you’ll make some time to get outdoors and enjoy the cooler temperatures. I often find healing in nature when I most need rest from the daily struggles – especially this time of year.
Be well, everyone!
Jolene Sharp
Are you registered to vote?
As part of the developmental disabilities community in Tennessee, we know how important it is for every voice to be heard. Voting is one of the most powerful ways to make that happen. But before you can vote, you need to be registered!
Important things to know about voter registration in Tennessee:
- You can register online here.
- There are accessible registration options for people with disabilities.
- Having a guardian doesn't automatically mean you can't vote - many people with guardians still keep their right to vote.
Not sure about your registration status? Want to learn more about the process? The Secretary of State's website has all the information you need about registering and voting in Tennessee.
Remember, your vote matters. It's your chance to have a say in the issues that affect you and your community. Whether it's about healthcare, education, accessibility, or any other topic important to you - your voice counts!
Take a moment today to check your registration status or help someone you know register to vote.
New Documentary: "Accessing Democracy"
On October 10 at 3:00 p.m. EST, the National Disability Rights Network is premiering "Accessing Democracy," a documentary about voting access for people with disabilities.
The film follows Monica Wiley as she interviews disabled voters about barriers they face in civic participation. It explores how politicians often overlook this large minority group and what disabled voters want from elected officials.
Join the online premiere and Q&A panel with the filmmakers.
Register here for the online premiere.
Watch the trailer:
Council Member Spotlight: New Voices on the Council
We're excited to welcome three new members to our Council!
Katie Moore
Katie Moore of Henderson brings her experience with learning disabilities and enthusiasm for advocacy. A graduate of our Partners in Policymaking program, Katie is passionate about improving airplane accessibility, expanding job opportunities, and enhancing doctor-patient communication for those with invisible disabilities. She stays active in her community and runs an advocacy Instagram account, @journey_for_self_advocated.
Swathi Dasari
Swathi Dasari of Brentwood joins us with a focus on inclusive education and support services. Her journey as a parent advocate has led her to involvement in various support programs. Swathi excels at bringing people together and creating inclusive solutions. She looks forward to contributing her experience to shape meaningful policy changes for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Donna Nasso
Donna Nasso of Germantown brings her perspective as a mother and professional in the disability field. As the Director of Special Needs at Hope Presbyterian Church and an adjunct psychology instructor, Donna is passionate about planning for the future of individuals with disabilities. A Partners in Policymaking graduate herself, Donna is excited to be a "change maker" on the Council, focusing on long-term planning and support for families.
Meet Deanna Osbourne: Our New Policy Intern
We're excited to introduce you to Deanna Osbourne, who recently joined us as a policy intern. Deanna brings a unique perspective as both an educator and parent of a person with a disability.
Deanna is a Kentucky native who has called Tennessee home for decades. She currently teaches high school English. Her interest in disability policy grew out of her experiences in education and as a parent-advocate.
How did you first connect with the Council? What made you want to work here as a policy intern?
I first met Council members through email, at an ARC TN event, and at community meetings about inclusive college programs. Over the years, I became more interested in learning about disability issues and how to help make progress. I was drawn to the Council's mission to improve services and support for people with developmental disabilities and their families. The Council's integrity and my personal connection to this work made me want to get involved.
Can you share one "ah-ha" moment or something that has surprised you in your time with us so far?
I've learned a lot about how the Council works and the people involved. One moment that stood out was when Director Lauren Pearcy talked about the Council's work on belonging at our retreat. I've also enjoyed hearing Council members' stories. It's clear how dedicated and engaged everyone is.
What do you hope to gain from your time with the Council?
I hope to better understand how disability services and supports work in Tennessee. I want to listen, learn, and contribute in some small way to the Council's work.
We're grateful to have Deanna's perspective and dedication as part of our team this summer! Her insights as an educator and parent will be invaluable as we work to improve disability policies and supports across Tennessee.
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
Did you know that people with disabilities are much more likely to experience suicidal thoughts? A CDC study found that 30.6% of adults with disabilities reported suicidal thoughts in the past month, compared to 8.3% of the general population.
Our state offers several key resources to support Tennesseans:
- If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 for the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This service is available 24/7 in English and Spanish.
- Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network (TSPN): Connects agencies, professionals, and individuals across the state.
- The "Be the One" Campaign: Learn how you can help prevent suicide in Tennessee
Together, we can support each other and prevent suicide.
Policy Corner: Council News to Know
As part of the disability community, public policy decisions at every level – local, state, and federal – can have a huge impact on our lives and the lives of our loved ones. Voting is one important way that we can try to influence who is making those policy decisions.
Do you know someone who needs some help getting registered to vote or updating their registration for this election cycle? Do you have any friends who may need help with early voting or getting to their polling place? Reach out this week and offer to help them if you can!
If you are a voter with disabilities with questions about accessibility, visit Disability Rights TN’s voting resources hub.
The deadline to register for the next election is October 7. Early voting starts soon after that.
-Emma Garton, Public Policy Director
Feedback Needed:
- Survey: Foster parents in Tennessee caring for a school-age child with a disability (or who have cared for foster children with disabilities since 2023)
- Stories needed: Vanderbilt’s Kindred Stories project needs students and parents who have lived experience with the behavioral supports and practices in Tennessee schools. They also want to hear from educators and school administrators who have experienced and addressed challenging behaviors in the classroom. Interviewees may choose to remain anonymous.
- Read more about the project on this flier. Fill out this interest form to sign up for interviews or email Courtney Taylor with "Kindred Stories" in the subject line.
- Input needed: National health advocacy organization Institute for Exceptional Care is taking public comment through Sept. 30 about their goals for improving health outcomes for people with disabilities
State Policy Events and News:
- Adult-Size Changing Tables Are Happening in Tennessee (Nashville Scene)
- Featuring Council member and Partners in Policymaking graduate Chrissy Hood talking about her work to increase the number of adult-size changing tables across the state!
- New Ballad partnership to bring employment opportunities to students with disabilities (Johnson City Press)
- The Council funded the first Project SEARCH pilot many years ago, which has now been adopted by nearly 20 businesses across TN. It is a high school/industry internship program that gives students with disabilities real work experience in rotations throughout every department. Learn more on Vocational Rehabilitation’s website.
- DDA Awards Grant Funding for Respite Ministries (TN Dept. of Disability and Aging press release)
- Job Fairs for jobseekers with disabilities hosted by TN Dept. of Human Services Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
- Transformation in Tennessee: TN Department of Disability and Aging Network Accreditation & Other Statewide Initiatives (Council on Quality and Leadership video)
- New Report: “The Landscape of Dental Care for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in Tennessee" (American Institute of Dental Public Health and Harmony Health, funded by the TN Dept. of Disability and Aging)
- Federal court: TennCare illegally terminated health coverage for thousands (TN Lookout)
- Federal judge: lawsuit by deaf people, denied services in Tennessee group homes, will move ahead (TN Lookout)
National News:
- Census Rethinking How To Count Disability Population (Disability Scoop)
- Advocates push for inclusive healthcare for people with disabilities (CBS News)
- People with disabilities face extra hurdles for housing (PBS Newshour)
- What the Outcome of the Election Could Mean for Medicaid (Kaiser Family Foundation)
Federal Policy News and Events:
- 19, Oct. 3, Oct. 17, 1pm Central - White House Office of Public Engagement Aging and Disability Communities Call
- Sept 26-27 - President's Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities; register to attend virtually here
- Social Security Administration Announces New Efforts to Simplify SSI Applications (Social Security Administration)
- The Implicit and Explicit Exclusion of People with Disabilities in Clinical Trials – Report by the National Council on Disability, Aug. 2024
- S. Department of Transportation Releases Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on Adoption of Accessibility Standards for Pedestrian Facilities in the Public Right-of-Way (PROWAG)
- HUD Takes Action to Support Community Living for People with Disabilities | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
- Plain language explanation of the voting process for presidential elections (Association of University Centers on Disabilities)
- List of federal legislation we are watching
(*Sources for federal legislation and events include policy newsletters from The Arc U.S., Association of University Centers on Disabilities, Family Voices, the Administration for Community Living and more)
Upcoming Opportunities
Now Open: TN Disability Coalition Small Grants Program
The Tennessee Disability Coalition has announced exciting updates to their Small Grants Program. We encourage disability organizations across Tennessee to consider applying for this expanded grant opportunity.
Here are the key things to know:
- The program is now offering grants annually each fall. This year, they are accepting grant proposals through Friday, September 27th, 2024.
- Even better news - the funding amount has increased! Organizations can now request up to $15,000 per grant.
- These changes took effect on August 2nd, 2024. The Small Grants Program aims to support innovative projects that improve the lives of Tennesseans with disabilities.
Want to learn more or apply? Visit the Small Grants overview page at tndisability.org/small-grants-overview.
If you have any questions, reach out to Carrie Carlson at smallgrants@tndisability.org.
Free "My Tech For All" Training Series Starting This Fall
We're excited to share news about an upcoming free technology training series called "My Tech For All." This weekly online program aims to help Tennesseans with disabilities learn valuable tech skills to enhance independence and inclusion.
Key Details:
- Every Tuesday, Sept. 17 - Dec. 10, 2024 (No session Thanksgiving week)
- 9:00-10:30 AM Central Time
- Designed specifically for people with disabilities, family members, and professionals.
Highlights include sessions on digital safety, voice technologies, finding jobs online, setting up and using smart home technology, and creating content online.
Participants will also hear updates from the TN DDA Tech Summit on November 12.
The training is led by experts in disability and technology, including professors, self-advocates, and leaders in assistive technology. Two self-advocates will serve as co-trainers for all sessions.
We encourage Council members, partners, and anyone interested to participate in the sessions that fit your schedule and interests. You'll join a supportive learning community of people with disabilities, family members, and professionals from across Tennessee.
Click here to register or visit mytechforall.com to learn more!
2024 Enabling Technology and Innovation Summit
Mark your calendars for the 2024 Enabling Technology and Innovation Summit!
This free two-day event will explore how technology can assist people with disabilities and older adults. The theme is "Innovation for Life." Speakers will address topics like values and rights, TN State Parks accessibility, and improving oral health care through technology. Advocate workshops are also planned, with more details coming soon.
- When: November 13-14, 2024
- Where: Embassy Suites, Murfreesboro, TN
Registration is open until Monday, October 21, 2024. While the event is free, please notify Aleah.Glodich@tn.gov if you register and later can't attend. Discounted hotel rooms are available through October 15.
Vanderbilt Sibshops for the 2024-2025 School Year
Sibshops are fun, supportive workshops for siblings (ages 8-13) of children with special needs, including intellectual or developmental disabilities, medical needs, and mental health concerns.
- Held one Saturday morning per month at Vanderbilt.
- 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- The cost is $10 per child per session, with scholarships available.
Once you register, the Sibshop team will reach out with all the details you need to know about where to go, where to park, and what to expect.
If you're looking for support for siblings younger than 8 or older than 13, don't worry - there are options for them too! Just email alexander.c.pilloff@vanderbilt.edu to learn more about peer support for siblings of all ages.
Job Openings in the Disability Field
Tennessee Caregiver Coalition
First Tennessee Development District
Council Meetings 2024
Council meetings are open to the public. If you would like to attend Council meetings, contact Assistant to the Executive Director Ashley (Edwards) Hill at ashley.edwards@tn.gov. You can also call our main office line at 615-532-6615.