Reflections on 2020 from a self-advocate

by Michael Thornton | Jan 1, 2021 | Archives, Featured, Self Advocacy

As a self-advocate, 2020 has been very rough on me. I am sure I am not the only person with a disability that feels this way. In a normal year, I would have traveled at least once, maybe twice, out of state to conferences to learn about issues that matter to people...

Guardianship and decision-making focus of this week’s Speak Up Arkansas, blog

by Kerri Michael | Jul 15, 2020 | Archives, Featured, Guardianship, Self Advocacy

All people have a right to self-determination – that is, the right to live their lives the way they choose. Sometimes, however, a person with disabilities might need some support in making important decisions about money, health care, housing, property, public...

Sharing information about coronavirus? Here are some resources.

by Kerri Michael | Mar 16, 2020 | Archives, Community, Featured, Healthcare, Resources, Self Advocacy

Thanks to our community partners, we’ve gathered a few resources about the Coronavirus that might be helpful. It’s so important to ensure that all of us have an understand the most accurate information and recommendations to limit the spread of...

FIRST PERSON: DRA’s Darren Morris tells his self-advocate story

by Darren Morris | Feb 24, 2020 | Archives, Featured, Self Advocacy

I grew up in Chicago IL, and was diagnosed with a learning disability at an early age. Me and my brother both struggled with some things while in school, like reading and math. This made some people think that we would never make a full purpose in life, like holding...

“Nothing about us without us”: The time is now for a peer support movement in Arkansas

by Tom Masseau | Feb 4, 2020 | Archives, Community, Featured, PAIMI Council, Self Advocacy

“Nothing about us without us!” What does this mean? Is it true here in Arkansas? How can decisions be made that affect individuals with disabilities without seeking their input? Does anyone look at the impact that these decisions might have on individuals...

What’s the difference? “State complaint” vs. “due process”

by Thomas Nichols | Jan 8, 2020 | Archives, Education, Featured, Self Advocacy

What is the difference between a state complaint and due process?   In our practice, I have heard parents, advocates, and even attorneys refer to these mechanisms interchangeably. Indeed, both State Complaints and Due Process Complaints are procedures intended to...