This webinar was recorded on Thursday, August 6, 2020, from 2 – 4 PM. Like everyone, many people with disabilities are having a difficult time during the coronavirus pandemic and the shutdown. So many things that we love to do are not available right now, which has led to an increase in anxiety, depression, and other issues. One key way to help reduce those concerns is to increase the ability of people with disabilities to make their own choices as much as they can. This is called “self-advocacy” or “self-determination,” which has been found to improve outcomes on so many levels and empower individuals to feel better about their lives and be happier. This webinar will feature experts, parents, and self-advocates who will provide honest stories about how they are using self-advocacy to cope with the pandemic.
Presenters include:
- Samuel Astle, Self-Advocate
- David Grady, Regional Manager, Central Coast, State Council on Developmental Disabilities
- Darlene Hanson, Speech and Language Pathologist, Co-Director, Supported Decision-Making California Advocacy Project, Disability Voices United
- Mari-Anne Kehler, Parent and Vice-President, Autism Society of Los Angeles
- Priyanka Nookala, Self-advocate
- Charles Pakbaz, Self-advocate
- Scott Shepard, Director, Avenues Supported Living Services
- Moderated by Judy Mark, President of Disability Voices United