ABOUT THE INSTITUTE ON DISABILITIES

From the Co-Executive Directors

January 2013

Thank you for visiting the website of the Institute on Disabilities. We hope that you find the site informative and that you learn about something that can help you, your family, or someone you know!

As we reflect on 2012, we acknowledge that though not without its challenges, the past year has been filled with exciting change and great accomplishments.

Shortly after assuming the executive directorship on January 1, 2012, we launched the innovative web-based "Visionary Voices," a collection of video interviews and paper archives from people who played a significant role in Pennsylvania's Intellectual Disabilities Rights Movement. More than 250 guests joined us at the Independence Visitor Center in historic Philadelphia to celebrate the launch and donate funds to help continue the project.

Just a few months later, we were awarded six new grants encompassing a wide range of activities. Each project helps us achieve our vision of a Pennsylvania where all people are valued and respected, and where all people have the knowledge, opportunity and power to improve their lives and the lives of others. Read about the grants in "Temple Today."

Just a few weeks into 2013, we were awarded two more grants—You will be hearing more about these and other projects in the coming months. "Like" us on Facebook to follow us and get the news first!

We encourage you to become part of our work. Each month, we offer a many ways for people with disabilities, family members, students, educators and other professionals to learn, share, lead and to improve their lives. In April, our Mini Course Lecture Series will welcome Allan I. Bergman, a nationally recognized leader in influencing the development of policy on "best practice" service for people with disabilities. He will be giving an important and timely talk on managed care and long-term services and supports for people with disabilities. Check back for more details on date and location.

To support our work, please consider contributing to one of our select projects or to the Institute in general. Your money will help us serve more people with disabilities and their families, and the people who support them. It will help us enlighten the next generation of teachers, doctors, therapists, and others, and will help ensure that ALL Pennsylvanians have what they need to be equal, successful members of the community. The Temple University on-line form makes giving easy - just go to the "donate" section of our website

Thank you for your support and have a great year!

Celia S. Feinstein
Amy S. Goldman
Co Executive Directors