Making a difference [Vol. 4, no. 3 (Winter 2004)]

G O V E R N O R ' S C O U N C I L O N D E V E L O P M E N TA L D I S A B I L I T I E S

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A quarterly magazine that focuses on developmental disability issues in Georgia

Making A DIFFERENCE
Volume 4 Issue 3 Winter 2004
A quarterly magazine of the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities.
The Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities collaborates with Georgia's citizens, public and private advocacy organizations and policymakers to positively influence public policies that enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities and their families.
The Council provides this through education and advocacy activities, program implementation, funding, and public policy analysis and research.
Lynnette Bragg Chairperson
lynnettebragg@aol.com
Eric E. Jacobson Executive Director eejacobson@dhr.state.ga.us
2 Peachtree Street NW, Suite 8-210 Atlanta, GA 30303-3142 Voice (404) 657-2126 Fax (404) 657-2132 Toll free (888) 275-4233 TDD (404) 657-2133 www.gcdd.org
Yao Seidu Editor in Chief yaseidu@dhr.state.ga.us
Janice Nodvin Project Manager May South, Inc. jnodvin@mayinstitute.org
Renita Mathis Managing Editor
Audrey Arthur Susan Berch Kathleen Harris Pat Nobbie David Pollan Jody Steinberg Contributing Writers
Alex Jones Photography - Cover Feature
Keith Middleton Cartoonist
YoYo Design Studio - Lora Ho Design & Layout

From the Executive Director
Let's Unify With One Powerful Message
We at the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities wish everyone a prosperous and successful New Year, and welcome to 2004, a year of challenge and enormous potential. It is with a fair amount of pride that we have been able to continue publishing Making A Difference magazine in its current form for four years.
We created this publication after hearing you say there was a critical need for information about disability issues and activities in our state and around the country. We have attempted to fill that void.
We think the magazine has become a forum for people to learn about issues that should be the driving force in public policy and systems change for people with disabilities in Georgia.
The council hopes that Making A Difference is a useful tool for you in your efforts to advocate for improved services in Georgia. It always comes down to that advocacy.
This magazine is just one tool that you can use to help change the policies of this state. Without accurate information about the issues and what is possible, none of us can help create an atmosphere for change. Please e-mail me personally at eejacobson@dhr.state.ga.us, and let me know your opinion about what's good or bad about our magazine. Your input is important in helping us to know where we need to improve and what new direction we can explore. This edition of Making A Difference is your guide to the 2004 legislative session. Prior to previous sessions, I felt comfortable asking you to advocate for increased budgets and new programs. But, today we live in a very different economic world. For the second consecutive year, we face serious budget shortfalls. Many of us in the advocacy community and the broarder Disability Movement here in Georgia believe that a powerful message can be sent to the state's chief executive and others concerning the direction we believe our state needs to be headed. To strengthen our advocacy efforts, we need to support and join coalitions who speak for all of us, like the Partnership for Community Living (www.gcdd.org/partnership). Partnerships can be a unifying voice for all of us: people with disabilities, family members, advocates, service providers and direct-care professionals. Finally, I want to encourage you not to wait for someone else to do any of this. In June 2004, there will be a national conference focusing on recruiting and developing new leadership, getting young people more involved in our advocacy efforts. Our leadership is aging including this writer. We have not done a very good job of recruiting others, especially young people to join our movement. We all commend and thank our past and present-day advocacy leaders in our state but now is the time to identify, educate and train others who are willing to take our history, efforts and movement to the next level. Just like we need to find new finances to fund existing needs, we need to find new leadership to lead us tomorrow. I am reminded of Nelson Mandela who says, "Our deepest fear is not that we're inadequate, but that we are powerful." You are the reason there is a powerful force in Georgia and across the country. Now is the time to grow our movement and take our struggle to the next level. Let's all have a good New Year.

Eric E. Jacobson

Executive Director, GCDD

2

Making A DIFFERENCE

Making A DIFFERENCE

Table Of Contents

Volume 4, Issue 3 Winter 2004

Features
16 State's Top Leaders Discuss
Building Advocacy Relationships
Speaker of the House Terry Coleman and President Pro Tem Eric Johnson, share thoughts on how to build relationships with legislators.
10 People Who Make A
Difference Share Their Stories
From around the state, advocates offer tales of triumph and determination.
13 Legislative Agenda Calls for
Belt Tightening for Everyone
As legislators prepare to slash budgets, advocates must prepare to make their voices heard.
In Each Issue
4 Letters to the Editor
20 Sponsorships
26 Resources
27 Calendar

16
Departments
2 From the Executive Director
Let's unify with one powerful message to be sent to state leaders concerning the direction we should be headed.
6 News & Events
SOS Kids mobilizes more than 200 advocates at the Capitol to call attention to proposed cuts that affect children with disabilities.

22 Medical Update
CDC's Jos Cordero crusades to reduce birth defects and developmental disabilities.
23 Vintage Photos
How well can you play photo match? Test your matching skills.
24 Hablmos Espaol
Un 17% de los nios de EE.UU. menores de 18 aos de edad tienen una discapacidad del desarrollo.
24 Straight Talk
Even though Susan Berch was diagnosed with having a thyroid condition that left her with a learning disability, she embraces an independent lifestyle.

7 Consumer Review

Check out the latest technology for people with disabilities.

10

8 Opinions: Point/Counterpoint

6

When people with disabilities have strong support systems, is a court-

appointed guardian necessary?

Winter 2004

3

Letters to the Editor

Keep Up the Good Work
It is a fact that effective advocacy relies largely on the actual resources that are made available to help make a real difference in the lives of people with disabilities. The Making A Difference magazine will most assuredly benefit all communities in the state and open doors for people who may need some type of support that never knew was available to them.
I graciously applaud your efforts and offer my assistance in any way that may be beneficial to you that will impact lives today and all the days ahead.
Annette Bowling, Executive Director Albany Advocacy Resource Center, Inc.

A Gem!
I think you have a gem in Making A Difference magazine. I have seen the growth of the magazine since it first began years ago. Over the course of time, I have been involved in the magazine as a medical consultant, an author of small pieces, and have been on the Editorial Advisory Board. I know the publication provides information and insight to its readers, which span the professional, political and family divide. The magazine is of high quality both in its content and its appearance.
Leslie Rubin, MD Developmental Pediatrician Emory University School of Medicine

Useful Information for Family
Making A Difference magazine is an important and informative resource for our parent members. We are happy to be able to provide it to them at our family activities. When answering questions regarding developmental disabilities, I constantly refer to the current or past issues for information. We would like to include copies in the packet of information we provide to new parents.
Sue Joe, Executive Director Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta

Informative Resource
We have continued to enjoy a strong working relationship with the magazine's editorial staff and look forward to helping connect this magazine to the wonderful stories from people who we serve, including Partners in Policymaking graduates throughout the state. Making A Difference has been an excellent source of information for our agency's staff and the people we serve within our varied programs.
Dave Blanchard, Director of Public Policy Atlanta Alliance on Developmental Disabilities

An Eye Opening Experience
As the state director of AARP Georgia, I have been pleased to see how our interests on behalf of Georgians have often intersected with those of the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities and the Unlock the Waiting Lists! Campaign. The Making a Difference Discovery Tour was an eye-opening experience which increased my interest in strengthening ties between our organizations. I think Making A Difference magazine is informative and helpful for keeping up with some of the issues that our constituents share.
Warren F. Brown, Interim State Director AARP Georgia
4

Committed to the Community
Like the GCDD, disABILITY LINK is committed to promoting the rights of all people with disabilities. We believe that all citizens, including those with disabilities, deserve the right to be independent, make decisions for themselves, have access to their community, and to achieve goals in life.
Making A Difference magazine has done an increasingly good job of informing Georgians of issues of disability, and increasing advocacy and awareness of the issues that affect individuals with disabilities. We hope to strengthen a relationship with the Georgia's Centers for Independent Living in which we all strive to increase opportunities for Georgians with disabilities.
Rebecca Ramage-Tuttle, Executive Director disABILITY LINK

How To Reach Us
Making A Difference Letters To The Editor
Letters should include the writer's full name, address, phone number, and may be edited for purpose of
clarity and space. Email us at:
makingadifference@gcdd.org Call us at:
(404) 657-2127 Fax us at:
(404) 657-2132 Or you can visit us at: 2 Peachtree Street, N.W., Suite 8-210, Atlanta, GA 30303-3142
Sponsorship: For sponsorship opportunities contact: Janice Nodvin at May South, Inc. (770) 956-8511, ext. 207 or jnodvin@mayinstitute.org Subscriptions / Back Issues Visit us at our Web site: www.gcdd.org or call us: (404) 657-2126 It is the policy of Making A Difference to publish readers' comments. Contents do not necessarily reflect the opinions of GCDD, the editors or state government.
Making A DIFFERENCE

Tour Photos

More than 55 business, community and civic leaders joined elected officials and the working media for a half-day tour that highlights "best practice" in disability.

Billed as the 3rd Annual Making A Difference Discovery Tour, hosted by the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities, the busy executives were briefed and viewed first-hand inclusive education, assisted technology, vocational and rehabilitative training as well as accessible housing.

Debbie Loeb, principal, DeKalb's Montgomery Elementary School and Angela Leissa, principal, Huntley Hills ES, discussed and demonstrated the latest techniques and procedures in inclusive classrooms to tour participants.
GCDD Making A Difference Discovery Tour

Beginning at the National Martin Luther King Center, participants heard an overview of disability issues and concerns with comparisons between the Civil Rights Movement and the Disability Rights Movement. Visits to DeKalb County Montgomery Elementary School and Huntley Hills Elementary School demonstrated best practice inclusive classrooms to tour participants. At the Touch of the Future/ReBoot facilities, tour participants viewed computers and cell phones being reconditioned and distributed to Georgians around the state with disabilities.Accessible housing and homes with "visit-ability" features were toured by participants at the tour's final stop, East Lake Commons.

At the Touch of the Future/ReBoot facilities in DeKalb county, tour participants viewed computers and cell phones being reconditioned and distributed to Georgians around the state with disabilities.

Accessible housing and homes with "visit-ability" features were toured by participants at the tour's final stop, East Lake Commons.

Winter 2004

5

News & Events

MOTHERS ORGANIZE CAPITOL RALLY Two mothers of children with disabilities came together and planned a November rally at the state capitol to protest proposed budget cuts to programs that impact Georgia's children who have disabilities.
"We have received overwhelming support since the rally, even getting support letters from various legislators, and Gov. Perdue," says Tanya McConnell, parent advocate and co-founder of SOS Kids. "But, it is important that we continue to let our voices be heard by writing letters, sending e-mails, and calling those who sit under the Gold Dome."
Visit the Web sites at www.congress.org or www.vote-smart.org
YODER NEW AADD CHIEF Mary Yoder has been named director of the Atlanta Alliance on Developmental Disabilities. Ms. Yoder replaces Tom Graf, who after 30 years of service is retiring. AADD is an organization that works to build

communities of support, acceptance, and opportunity for children, adults, and families living with developmental disabilities.
Visit the Web sites at www.aadd.org
BUDGET COALITION A PART OF ADVOCACY For organizations that consider themselves proponents for people with disabilities, it is advantageous to be listed in the upcoming Budget Coalition list. As a member of the Budget Coalition, your organization will be listed on all advocacy material during the legislative session.
Membership will cost $100 per year and is open to groups only, but individuals can belong to one or more consortia. Budget Coalition founding members include: National Mental Health Association of Georgia, Georgia Council on Substance Abuse, Service Providers Association
for Developmental Disabilities, or SPADD, The Arc of Georgia, the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities, Atlanta Alliance on Developmental Disabilities,Georgia Parent Support Network,

Georgia Mental Health Services Coalition, Georgia Association for Homes and Services for Children and GATES.
For information, call Dawn A. Randolph at (678) 471-3804, or e-mail at democracydawning@comcast.net.
OVER 1300 EXPECTED AT D DAY RALLY Disability Day at the Capitol 2003 was a great success. Now we are getting ready for D Day 2004! Mark your calendar for Thursday, Feb. 26, 2004.
Last March, individuals with disabilities, family members, and advocates from across the state united in the name of advocacy at the largest crowd in the history of Disability Day at the Capitol. Connections were formed, friendships established and most importantly, the capacity crowd convened to send a powerful message to their legislators, "Georgians with disabilities vote, and we count."
We are doing it again on Feb. 26, 2004. Individuals with disabilities and their families will have an opportunity to educate their legislators as they join us for our annual barbecue luncheon. Contact your local legislator to ask that they put Disability Day at the Capitol 2004 on their calendar.

For more information, visit the Web site: www.gcdd.org/publicpolicy/dday/index.htm
INCLUSION CONFERENCE SLATED FOR MARCH Better All Together: Inclusion Works! on March 17-20, 2004, celebrates the past five conferences and includes topics about inclusion from preschool to young schoolage children to after highschool graduation to adulthood.
Many resource people from Georgia and around the U.S. will present a variety of sessions addressing topics such as early childhood inclusion, school inclusion, curriculum modifications, supported living, supported employment, community building, teaching strategies, and person-centered planning
For more information, visit the Web site: www.gactr.uga.edu/conferences/ 2004/Mar/17/together.phtml
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER TAKE A LEAP 2004 Regional Conference on Down Syndrome and Other Developmental Disabilities, Feb. 27-29, 2004. Guest speakers include Julie Beckett, mother of the Medicaid Deeming Waiver, and other national speakers on Down syndrome and developmental disabilities.
For more information, visit the Web sites: www.down-syndromeatlanta.org www.maysouth.org

6

Making A DIFFERENCE

In this department, we feature products and services that will assist you and your family in an independent life style and reaching the potential of all Georgians. In this issue, we highlight various assistive technology services.

Dunamis
Dunamis team has more than 30 years of experience designing computer-based learning activities for people with disabilities. One of the company's great life-skills products is Toward Independence, a software program on one CD-ROM. Learn to follow a picture schedule with Plan Your Day. This program, included in the Picture Cue Dictionary, lets you set times for and sequence student activities. Users can study the schedule at the computer or follow the printout during the day.
Shopping Smart, also found in Picture Cue Dictionary, makes shopping easier for low-level readers by providing a picture-based shopping list that students can follow in the store or study at the computer before they go out.
Review money handling skills with Spending Money, part of the Dollars and Cents program. You can choose between an exercise or shopping option. When shopping, students cruise the "money mall" looking for items on

their computer-generated shopping lists.
Explore eight neighborhood streets in Looking for Community Words. Students can learn vocabulary on their own, or search for specific words on their word list. Learn essential vocabulary with WordWise Community. A unique feature encourages students to record their own pronunciations of 80 important words and compare them to the computer's speech. The program includes a multiple choice, speech recording and print option.
Visit Dunamis at www.dunamisinc.com, or call ((770) 279-1144.
Aurora
Aurora for Windows -- Aurora Systems Inc. provides software to help individuals with learning disabilities and people who require augmentative communication. The company has provided products for Windows and DOS
throughout North America and the world since 1989.
Aurora for Windows helps people with learning disabili-

Consumer Review

ties and dyslexia write and spell better and helps people with physical disabilities communicate with the people around them.
Aurora Talk is the ultimate conversation tool. You can assign frequently used phrases to function keys for instant spoken communication or type whatever you want to say. The program allows organization of your phrases into categories for home, work or school, and can provide quick searches on what you have spoken before, and say it again easily.
Aurora products operate transparently with all your favorite applications including e-mail, Web browsers, word processors and more on Windows 3.1, 95, 98, Me, NT 4.0, 2000 and XP.
For detailed information, take their online tour at www.aurorasystems.com/to ur.html. Or call (604) 2916310; toll free (888) 2901133.
Freedom Scientific
Florida-based Freedom Scientific is an HP accessibility partner that develops and manufactures technology products that enable people who are blind or have low vision to work on the same competitive level with those who are sighted.

Their industry-leading products include JAWS for Windows, the world's bestselling screen-reading software, and Braille 'n Speak, a note-taking device with Braille key input and speech or data output, as well as other Braille-related products. This 175-employee company also creates products for special education classes and for people with learning disabilities.
Visit their Web site at www.freedomscientific.com, or call (727) 803-8000, ext. 1155.
DynaVox Systems
DynaVox Systems LLC is the world's-largest manufacturer of advanced augmentative communication solutions, and for more than 16 years has been committed to helping people with disabilities live fuller lives. Their products assist thousands of individuals around the world with conquering communication barriers and excelling in the classroom, workplace and the community. Brands from DynaVox Systems include DynaVox 3100, DynaMyte 3100, Dynamo, DynaVox Software for Mac and Windows computers and DynaSyms.
Visit their Web site at www.dynavoxsys.com

Winter 2004

7

POINT

Make Guardianship Necessary
By David Pollan

P arents of adults with a disability are often confronted with the subject of guardianship and whether or not they should become their child's legal guardian. Guardianship is the legal proceeding for the appointment of a legal representative to someone who either lacks decision-making capacity, or is simply unable to communicate his or her decisions because of a mental or physical disability. Parents and advocates of people with disabilities should know when and under what circumstances a guardianship is legally advisable, so they may prevent potentially abusive situations where rights of the disabled individual are unnecessarily removed.
A guardianship is usually initiated either through the probate or family courts depending on applicable state law so that a legal representative can be appointed to an "incapacitated"person. Since guardianship removes the rights of the person with a disability or "liberty interests" and gives someone else the authority to act on his or her behalf, it should only be pursued as a last resort and narrowly tailored to preserve rights to the greatest extent possible in light of the person's limitations and abilities. Liberty interests which are usually removed from the person with a disability by the court include: s the right to contract marriage; s the power to enter into contracts; s the power to consent or refuse medical
treatment; s the power to decide where to live; s and management of monies and property.
Notwithstanding the appointment of a legal guardian, in every guardianship, the person with a disability always maintains the right: s to a guardian who will act in his or her
best interests and whose affairs do not create a conflict of interest;

s to a guardian who is reasonably them. In such an instance, the court

accessible to him or to her;

overseeing the administration of the

s to have his or her property used to estate may require the appointment of a

provide for his or her support, care, legal guardian to protect the financial

education, and well being; and

interests of the disabled beneficiary. In the

s to communicate freely and privately case of the noncompetent disabled life

with others.

insurance beneficiary, the life insurance

Some courts have clerks who will company may require the appointment

screen a guardianship

of a legal guardian as

petition before it can be filed to ensure that

Opinions

a condition of paying out the life-insurance

alternatives to the

benefits.

guardianship have

Doctors, hospitals,

been explored. A

and other healthcare

common alternative

providers may also

to a guardianship

recommend guardian-

might include the

ship for a noncompe-

existence of a power

tent adult patient

of attorney that the

with a disability when

person with a disability

there is a dispute

executed before the

between the parents

onset of their disability.

regarding medical

A power of attorney is a way that a person

David Pollan

decision making. In the absence of a patient

can give another person authority to act on their behalf. Applicable state law determines the level of capacity or "competency" necessary to execute a power of attorney.

David Paul Pollan is an Elder Law attorney in private practice in Atlanta.
Mr. Pollan concentrates his practice in aging and disability law, including nursing home Medicaid planning, Medicaid SSI and estate planning for the individual with a disability, nursing home and assisted living issues, child

to consent to medical treatment, state law usually permits a parent to consent to medical treatment on behalf of the noncompetent patient. However, if both parents are not in

For many parents and adult guardianship, estate planning agreement as to a

of an adult child with and probate litigation, and nursing proposed course of

a disability who lack home and healthcare litigation.

medical treatment, a

capacity to execute

legal guardian may be

power of attorney or to otherwise necessary for the purpose of making

authorize their parents to act on their medical decisions.

behalf, there may be no alternative to

Appropriate legal counsel and careful

guardianship. For example, a person consideration of the rights, interests,

with a disability may be left an inheritance and well being of persons with a disability

from an estate or is the beneficiary of life should be fully explored before any

insurance benefits and is either not decision is made for the appointment of

competent to manage the inheritance or a legal guardian to ensure that a

to execute power of attorney authorizing guardianship is in fact necessary.

someone to manage the inheritance for

8

Making A DIFFERENCE

counter POINT

When Guardianship is Unnecessary
By Kathleen Harris

M y family members live out of state. Therefore, when I need help I go to my "other" family that is, my support circle of close friends. For instance, when I need help sorting out finances, I call Shirley, a CPA. When I'm wondering if I should see a doctor about some ailment, I call Sue, a nurse. If I need help with the computer, which I will never understand, I call on Roger, who is a "geek." It has never occurred to any of my friends to file a petition to have a court appoint them my guardian, so they can help me, despite the fact that I am "incompetent" to do those tasks without their help. Because I have such a strong support system, I don't need a court-appointed "guardian" to help me.
Individuals with developmental disabilities, of course, have the same kind of support circles to help make decisions. We call this process person-centered planning through a support circle and consider it a key element of selfdetermination. We seek first to determine the individuals' desires for their own lives. If individuals don't understand what is being asked of them, their family or friends are there to make sure they get what they want and need. If they need medical treatment, help at their school IEP, or at the human services program that will help them find a place to live or get a job, their family members and others who make up their circle of support will help them arrange it. There are cases in which individuals do not have family or friends in their lives to act as a support circle. This calls for development of creative ways to bring community members into these individuals' lives so that over time, a support circle will develop, thus negating the need for guardianship.
Imposing guardians on individuals may interfere with the support circle process. Person-centered planning through support circles assumes that all individuals, no matter how significant their disabili-

ties, have preferences. They communi- decisions about their own lives. It should

cate those preferences in some way, even be noted that under guardianship, it is

if only through their behavior. Those possible that a person will lose funda-

who know them most intimately are in mental civil rights. More than 30 states

the best position to determine what the deny individuals under guardianship the

individual needs, wants, or doesn't right to vote or marry. Many states give

want. If there is a court-ordered guardians the right to have an individual

guardian, there is a danger that one sterilized. Informally, guardians often

person may be allowed to impose

Opinions

make decisions about what religious affilia-

their decisions on the

tion a person partici-

individual without the

pates in, who they can

benefit of knowing

visit or call, whether

what the person

they can date or

desires, either directly

engage in intimate

or through the obser-

relationships. These are

vations of the support

not necessarily legiti-

circle.

mate decisions for

Some providers

guardians to make,

of services for individ-

but they often make

uals with develop-

them not knowing they

mental disabilities

may exceed constitu-

have requested that families or friends

Kathleen Harris

tional limits. When considering

seek court-appointed guardianship because the providers believe it is a legal necessity. In fact, there is generally no legal requirement that a person

Kathleen Harris is an attorney and social worker who specializes in guardianship issues. She was a member of the Michigan Supreme Court Task Force on Guardianship and has been active in working with the Michigan

guardianship, ask yourself the following: If you needed help in making decisions about your life, would you rather have a court intervene by legally

who is acting as a legislature in promoting guardianship removing your right to

surrogate decision- reform. Kathleen is board president of make decisions and

maker must be a the Center for Self-Determination, appointing one person

guardian. Providers are and serves on several other boards of to make all decisions

often not familiar disability organizations. She consults for you? Or, would

with, and thus do not promote, the use of support circles and family consent policies, powers of attorneys, and other alternative surrogate decision-

with non-profit organizations about disability issues, guardianship, and person-centered planning. Kathleen will be in Atlanta at the SelfDetermination Conference in April 2004.

you want your family and friends to ask you what you want and have them consider all evidence of your preferences and needs, and make decisions

making devices.

with you? Our great-

It is important that those who est task is to assure enough support for

provide services for individuals examine individuals so that their preferences can

their policies to assure they do not be honored, respected, and guardian-

encourage unnecessary guardianships ship becomes unnecessary.

that strip individuals of the right to make

Winter 2004

9

People Who Make A ByAudreyArthur

They are the vanguards, the emerging and upstarts of advocacy. They wield the fortitude and wherewithal to fight for people with disabilities. They are people with disabilities and the parents of people with disabilities, and they are just a select few we are featuring as this year's group of people who make a difference.

Beauty Pageant Winner has a Powerful Voice for the People
Kate Gainer has been an advocate all her life. But, after winning the Miss Wheelchair Georgia pageant in 1981, she fully realized the power one has to make a difference.
"By winning the pageant there were a lot of doors opened for me that would not have been opened otherwise," says Gainer, who is now 55. After her pageant win, Gainer's work as an advocate took a new turn when she was invited to serve on several nonprofit boards and committees, including United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia and the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities.
For the past two years, Gainer, who has athetoid cerebral palsy, has been an assistant project coordinator for Georgia Voices That Count, a learning and leadership development program for people with disabilities. Prior to that, she was a minority outreach coordinator for the Southeast Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center. She has also worked with the city of Atlanta as a disability-affairs coordinator.
An Atlanta native, Gainer has used her marketing and advocacy skills on behalf of a number of issues. A pressing issue right now for Gainer is the need to keep people with disabilities from being unnecessarily placed in nursing homes, and the need to get Georgia's lawmakers and decision makers to embrace and enforce the Olmstead Decision. Also at the top of her list: stricter compliance by employers with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

"Even though rehabilita-

tion has been charged with

working with people with

severe disabilities, it is still

easier to tell someone they

are unemployable or we

can't help you, than to

really be innovative,"

says Gainer, a mother

and grandmother.

"It's easier to not

fund the Equal

Employment

Opportunity

Commission, than to

have investigators

available to make

companies comply

with ADA."

So, what

keeps her on the

front lines of the

movement?

"The desire to

do what's

right," she

says. "The

most effective

advocacy is

when the indi-

vidual gets

involved," she

says. "It takes

both the system

and the individ-

ual, but no one

can tell my story

better than I can."

Beauty Pageant Winner has a Powerful Voice for the People

10

Making A DIFFERENCE

Difference in the Disability Community

and adults with disabilities.

"I wasn't aware of the

magnitude of organizations

and how many people wanted

to help. It was exciting," says

Moore, who is also mother to 2-

year-old Jared.

She would soon learn just

how many people were willing

to help her and friend Tanya

McConnell, the mother of a

2-year-old with bilateral hearing

loss, when they founded a

grass-roots campaign named

SOS Kids, or Save Our Special

Kids, in late 2003.

After learning proposed

Medicaid cuts of $261 million

for fiscal years 2004 and 2005

to children with disabilities,

professional staff and thera-

pists, were scheduled for the

A Child's Love Leads Mother to Launch Save Our Special Kids

2004 legislative session starting in January, Moore and McConnell planned a rally at

the state Capitol to bring

A Child's Love Leads Mother attention to the proposed cuts.

to Launch Save Our Special Kids

With help from the Governor's

Council on Developmental Disabilities,

When Heidi Moore found out her first son had Down syndrome, she immediately knew

Atlanta Alliance on Development Disabilities, the Arc of Georgia and other organizations, Moore and McConnell

she would advocate on his behalf.

pulled off a Nov. 8 rally at the Capitol

Moore, a former structural engineer that attracted more than 200 children,

for an oil company, quickly learned as parents and advocates.

much as she could about Down syndrome,

"We were just two concerned parents

even before her son, Jacob, was born who put the rally together," says Moore.

three years ago.

"We had no experience, just a love for

"I had 20 weeks during my pregnancy our children."

to learn as much as I could," she recalls.

Moore and McConnell may eventually

"God had a reason for giving me and my make SOS Kids a nonprofit organization,

husband Jacob, so we had to make the but for now, they continue to lobby the

best of it."

state Legislature against the proposed

With the support of her husband, Medicaid cuts using their newfound

Steven, Moore eventually joined the grass-roots know-how.

board of the Down Syndrome

In due course, Moore says, "I want

Association of Atlanta and became as many people as possible to know they

active with various Down syndrome can make a difference."

organizations across the country. From

For more information on SOS Kids,

the start, she was surprised by the number call(770) 442-5458.

of organizations advocating for children

Young Man Turns Physical Disability Into Advocacy Triumphs
It was a car accident more than 20 years ago that basically left then 18month-old Don Pollard immobile. But, that was the past, and the past is one thing this 25-year-old doesn't dwell on today.
Three years ago, Pollard's curiosity led him to become an advocate and start an information clearinghouse network for people with disabilities.
After receiving a letter in the mail about a nine-month advocacy course offered by the Atlanta Alliance on Developmental Disabilities and the Governor's Council on Development Disabilities, Pollard made up his mind to learn more about advocacy.
"I wanted to help others, but I really didn't know how to go about it," says Pollard, who continues to have a physical disability since the accident. "After I found out about he Partners in Policymaking Program, I figured that would set me in the right direction."
While participating in the Partners in Policymaking Graduate Program, Pollard learned the basics of grass-roots advocacy. But more profoundly, the course gave Pollard a broader sense of awareness about various disability topics.
continued on page 12
Young Man Turns Physical Disability Into Advocacy Triumphs

Winter 2004

11

People Who Make a Difference in the Disability Community continued from previous page

"Even if all the information didn't pertain to my situation specifically, I knew I could still use it in my community," he explains.
After graduating from the program in 2002, Pollard stepped into action with his first advocacy project that involved Wesley Mitchell, a Covington resident who had multiple severe disabilities and was confined to his home with little independence. Pollard eventually helped Mitchell get into an adult-day rehabilitation facility in Conyers, before passing away recently.
"It's every human being's right to be independent and have self-worth," says Pollard of his advocacy work. "There's no need to stick someone in an institution when he can be in the community not only benefiting himself but also benefiting others."
In early 2003, Pollard volunteered to serve as the sole plaintiff in the Americans With Disabilities Act compliance lawsuit in Conyers. The lawsuit resulted in making several locations in downtown Conyers' historic district provide wheelchair ramps to storefronts.
"People with disabilities should be advocating for their friends, family and themselves," says Pollard, a part-time student studying political science at Georgia Perimeter College.
Mother is Advocacy Vanguard
For Annette Bowling, executive director of Albany Advocacy Resource Center, the most rewarding aspect of being an advocate on behalf of those with disabilities is seeing her clients participate in the community as full-fledged citizens.
Bowling became an advocate as a result of her son's congenital heart condition. In 1961, her son was the first child to have open-heart surgery in the state of Florida. He had a second surgery in 1968. Divorced at the time, Bowling was faced with mounting medical bills.
"I didn't have many resources to turn to at the time," Bowling recalls. "The community rallied around me and

At a reception celebrating the first year of the distribution of Brain and Spinal Injury Trust Fund, Dennis Skelley, Chair of The Brain and Spinal Injury Trust Fund Commission, honors David Renz, Founding Commission Chair, for his leadership in establishing the commission.

supported me and even helped me with costs. That is what really touched my heart and said to me that I need to give back to the community that has given to me."
Bowling says her son, who is now 44, is doing great and that you would never know he experienced such a drastic operation at such a young age.
Mother is Advocacy Vanguard

Bowling moved to Albany, Ga., in 1971 after getting re-married. She joined Albany Advocacy Resource Center in 1974. Today, she leads one of the largest private provider agencies in the state, serving individuals with a wide range of disabilities and supportive living needs. The agency services 400 to 500 people at any given time with 16 programs, including a leadership-training institute, preschool project, adult-day program and independent-living program.
Of utmost concern to Bowling is moving individuals off the waiting list for community-based services and providing employment opportunities for those with disabilities.
With about 30 years of advocacy experience to her credit, Bowling still thrives and loves her work.
"What keeps me motivated are people with disabilities. Most have taught me a lesson about unconditional love and the fact that it's not the big things that count, but the little things," she explains. "If we could all use that philosophy, this would be a much better world."
Continued on Page 25

12

Making A DIFFERENCE

Legislative Agenda Calls for

As legislators prepare to slash budgets, advocates must prepare to make their voices heard.

Overview by Eric E. Jacobson, GCDD, Executive Director

In November, Gov. Sonny Perdue announced, "Despite some positive trends, we will face significant challenges in balancing thebudget." Once again, we face the prospect of cuts in services.
However, our message needs to be (1) we cannot afford any cuts in human services, and (2) there needs

to be a multiyear funding plan to address the waiting list for those in the community as well as those in institutions. Advocates across the state are suggesting that we no longer sit back and wait for things to get better. It is no secret that the Department of Community Health is
continued on page 14

Winter 2004

13

continued from previous page

GUIDE TO LEGISLATIVE AGENDA

exploring ideas to reform the Medicaid program. Let's make sure that any reform has a strong self-determination or self-directed care approach.
Additionally, now is a good time to create programs and opportunities that ensure direct care professionals are better trained, compensated and rewarded for the valuable, important and essential services they provide to Georgians with disabilities and their families. Let's call on the Department of Human Resources board to initiate and adopt new training standards for direct care professionals.
We also need to be working toward a rate increase for providers and caregivers who provide high-quality services. Service providers have had only one 4 percent increase in 10 years. The Service Providers Association for Developmental Disabilities is advocating for a 6 percent increase. Now is the time for this to happen.
Advocates across the state should ask Gov. Perdue, our legislative leaders, and members of the DHR board to support increased reimbursement rates for providers and changes in policies that support and enhance self-determination opportunities. These initiatives can only be successful if we change policies and allocate the necessary financial and human resources directed to Georgians with disabilities.

By Pat Nobbie
Annually, members of the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities approve the agenda that will guide activities during the legislative session. The process begins with input from stakeholders, council members and organizations with which they interact, and with research support from staff, particularly the policy director. Possible items are presented to the full council with detailed Pat Nobbie, Policy Director of GCDD, explanations of the legisla- presents advocacy agenda. tive action the item will require and the factors that may influence how successful the council may be in following that item in the session. The council then votes on each item, selecting a first priority and second priority list.
First Priority Items This year, issues with the state budget will demand a great
deal of attention. The budgets for the Department of Human Resources, the Department of Community Health, and the Department of Education are top priority.
DCH contains the most damaging cuts from the perspective of the disability community.
They include: Require premiums for the Deeming Waiver Program, using a sliding fee scale based on gross family income. Imposing a higher standard of need for Children's Intervention Services. Limiting home health visits (in-home therapy predominantly) Eliminating adult dental services. Eliminating children's psychological services. Eliminating coverage for orthotics and prostheses for adults (children will be covered under EPSDT (Early Periodic Screening and Diagnostic Treatment).

These proposed cuts to Medicaid total nearly $6 million in state funds for the remainder of this fiscal year, and nearly $30 million in fiscal year '05. The loss in corresponding federal funds 60 percent match to 40 percent state funds exceeds $48 million.

14

Making A DIFFERENCE

When the new board for the DHR was installed, they revised the budget that had been submitted by the previous commissoner. Cuts to direct services were restored; however, there are large administrative cuts proposed to the regional system more than $9.5 million that will have an impact on the ability of regional staff to focus efforts on home and communitybased services, and manage and oversee contracts. The following positions are proposed to be eliminated:
Seven regional services administrators: This would eliminate the community administration piece, leaving the hospital administrator as the second in command to the regional coordinator; Five PI/Planning specialists. Four contract specialists. Seven financial specialists. Five prevention specialists. Other cuts that are cause for concern are the elimination of the outside independent JAHCO accreditation for state hospitals, elimination of the volunteer services at the state hospitals, and reduction of 113 middle management positions at state hospitals. These three cuts will challenge the assurance of quality in state hospital services. There is also a proposal to reduce Babies Can't Wait by $709,187; Family Connection Partnership funds, from $62,000 per collaborative to $50,000 per collaborative; funding for Babies Born Healthy $375,000. This program helps uninsured or underinsured women receive comprehensive prenatal services as early as possible in their pregnancies. The cuts in the Department of Education will largely be passed to local school systems. However, there are significant reductions proposed to the Georgia Learning Resource System, which provides in-service and technical assistance to specialeducation teachers and the parents of children with special needs.
Other First Priority Initiatives: Money Follows People Resolution: The council would
seek to get a resolution passed that affirms the intent of the state to move money used to support a person in a nursing home or state institution to the community when that person transitions to the community. The resolution follows President Bush's "Money Follows People" appropriations proposal to offer states $1.75 billion to move people from institutions to the community. This proposal is an attempt to undo the institutional-funding bias that keeps people in institutions, allowing the state to draw more federal Medicaid support for institutional care.

Revenue Producing Options: The council will support any viable options that legislators propose to increase the revenue coming into the state in an effort to prevent future budget cuts, and possibly to avert some of the more damaging cuts that are on the table. Advocates themselves are researching potential options to share with legislators.
Second Priority Items: Election Code: Within the context of The
Voting Coalition, the council identified several aspects of the current election code that make it difficult for people with various disabilities to participate in the voting process. The council and a disability rights attorney are working with the Secretary of State's Office to propose revisions to the election code that would remove these barriers. Self-Determination Legislation: HB 701 and SB 170 were offered last session to authorize the implementation of selfdetermined service-delivery options for people with disabilities who want more control over the services they use. In the meantime, the departments of Community Health and Human Resources, with the support of the council and the governor's office, are pursuing administrative changes that would enable the state to offer this service as an option. Monitor HB 498: The council will monitor any proposed amendments to this legislation that authorizes the structure of the Regional MHDDAD system. Support Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund Initiatives: The council will support the BSCITF effort to authorize more direct referrals for services, and to protect their fund from being used for purposes other than for which it was intended by law. Direct Support Professionals: The final second priority item is to begin educating legislators on the issues surrounding the Direct Support work force. Information will be disseminated on training, certification, compensation and benefits, as well as workplace development and supervisor training. This is to prepare the groundwork for a compensation initiative in the next legislative session. The legislative session is a moving target, so though this is the planned agenda, some of these items may not be addressed at all, and others may arise that will take priority. The Public Policy Committee monitors the actions of the legislature and proposes changes in the council's advocacy as the session progresses. Readers are urged to get on the Moving Forward mailing list, check the council's Web site to download fact sheets they can share with their legislators, for contact Danielle Doughman at (404) 657-2125.

Winter 2004

15

State's Top Senate and House Leaders Ready for
A Stormy But Civil Session
By Jody Steinberg
The recession might be on the wane, but its results on Georgia's politics and economics will linger long after. Three-plus years of a diminishing economy, decreased tax base and depleted emergency funds means that this year will be the toughest yet for legislators as they convene for the second session of the 147th Georgia General Assembly on Jan. 13. Despite a contentious first session in 2003 and revenue shortfalls that spell painful budget cuts, Republicans and Democrats are in agreement with Gov. Sonny Perdue, who has declared a moratorium on new taxes.
The first republican governor of Georgia in 130 years, Gov. Perdue stormed the Capitol with enough republican support in 2003 to hold a Senate majority and usher in Georgia's new era in politics. Republicans, whose age-old minority status meant years of battling for equal time in the assembly, were suddenly elevated to leadership positions, while formerly dominant democrats were, for the first time in memory, subordinated to the role of minority party.
Thus ensued the longest, most contentious assembly in decades, running into weeks of overtime. While battles were fought over taxes and budgets, newly appointed General Assembly leaders moved up and down the halls of the Capitol into the familiar "power" offices and the hierarchy of state politics. Two who found themselves shifting up include Sen. President Pro Tempore Eric Johnson, one of the most powerful seat in the Senate, and Speaker of the House Terry Coleman, who stepped into the shoes of Georgia legend Tom Murphy. As these rising stars in their respective parties prepare for the 2004 assembly, they look to constituents who will offer legislative decisions that will usher in budgeting negotiations guaranteed to be fractious and frustrating.

16

Making A DIFFERENCE

Speaker of the House Terry Coleman (D-Eastman) understands the value of relationships. He has served in the Georgia General Assembly continuously since 1973. Coleman says, "in life, as in politics, you can't please all of the people, all of the time."
However, the "Coleman style" is to develop relationships and nurture them with respect. For "Mr. Speaker," as he is often called, it is more important to negotiate through the disagreements and disappointments with an eye toward productivity rather than contention.
"That's just the way we've always done it down here," says Coleman, a south Georgia restaurateur with successful lines of business in real estate and insurance.
Representing Districk 118 in the House for 30 years, Coleman has sat as chairman of numerous committees over the past two decades including the
powerful appropriations and budget oversight. The veteran politician assigns committee appointments to House members, appoints committee chairs, administers the rules of the
Veteran Statesman Says
Relationships and Involvement Can Make Things Happen

chamber, presides over debates and routes legislation to the appropriate committees.
Last winter's General Assembly, a scheduled 40-day session, dragged on as partisan politics, budget stalemates and political haranguing between the Republican Senate and Democratic House encumbered each significant bill as it moved through the legislative process. The result was a prolong, near-nightmarish session that began Jan. 14 and lasted through mid April.
The 2004 legislative session will be different, promises Coleman. The speaker has worked to develop and strengthen relationships among his colleagues. "Last year was an unusual year, and we got a little off track," Coleman says. "We had a new governor, a new Senate, a new speaker and everything. When you have that many major changes in leadership, it just takes a little time to find your stride."
Today, the speaker meets frequently with Gov. Sonny Perdue, Lt. Gov. Mark Taylor (D-Albany) and Sen. President Pro Tem Eric Johnson (R- Savannah), in an effort to improve the lines of communications between the executive and legislative branches of state government.
"We are all in this together, and we all want the same results," Coleman says. "We want a government that works for all Georgians, and we want to operate state government in the most effective and efficient way that we can, maximizing the use of state funds leveraged with federal dollars."
Continued on Page 19

Speaker Terry Coleman, 118th District

Born Dec. 5, 1943, Dodge County, Married to Carol Cofield Coleman

Ga.

Two children, two grandchildren

Associate Degree Justice Brenau College of Law

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* Served, Mercer Medical School Board of Governors (1990-2002)

Winter 2004

17

A Stormy But Civil Session

continued from Page 16

Negotiating the hard decisions is not new territory for the Georgia Senate's President Pro Tem Eric Johnson (R-Savannah), who is an officer or member of eight legislative committees ranging from regulatory and appropriations to rules and ethics. When he was elected Senator Pro Tem last session, the former minority leader, renowned for his outspoken partisan politics, assumed the Senate's highest-ranking position as the chosen leader of the majority party.
Promising at his inauguration to lead the 56-member Senate with "a mandate of cooperation and sensitivity of the minority party based on 130 years of experience," the Savannah architect proceeded to appoint four Democrats to chair committees, a significant gesture to the minority party. However, the lofty ideal of a bipartisan session was frequently sidetracked by passionate differences.

Senator President Pro Tem Eric Johnson Tries to
Calm the Stormy Seas

Legislators plagued by partisan politics and the need to implement unpopular austerity measures battled each piece of proposed legislation along closely divided party lines. One of the most hotly-debated issues: the proposal to increase excise taxes on alcohol and tobacco to fund desperately needed health and social services. Despite strong support from Gov. Perdue and Sen. Johnson, a greatly reduced tax bill scraped by with one vote, assuring gaping shortfalls in a budget that, by law, has to be balanced.
While special interest groups such as the disability community push for better services and accountability, Johnson and colleagues who prioritize and assign funding for state services know that some constituents will be disappointed.
"Cuts are coming," warns Johnson, who has served in the Senate since 1994, following one term in the House of Representatives. "Voters and politicians are not for tax increases."
Revenue collections will not meet the $16 billion annual budget, and state reserve funds are dangerously low. All state agencies, ordered to cut 2.5 percent from their budgets in 2003, have spent countless hours shaving another 5 percent from the 2004 operating budgets. Rather than scale back across the board, Johnson predicts that some programs will have to be eliminated if others are to survive.
"We've cut as much as 20 percent of some programs. We have to improve efficiencies, cut overlap and find better ways to provide services," Johnson explains. "We cannot deliver just 80 percent of a program. We have to prioritize which services are more vital."
18

Sen. Eric Johnson, 1st District

Born Aug. 20, 1953, New Orleans

Married to Kathryn

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Making A DIFFERENCE

"Consumers must meet with their legislators, and educate us on what the
programs being considered do. If you see waste, if you see savings, identify those."
Senate President Pro Tem Eric Johnson
In making those hard decisions, legislators want to hear from their voters. "People's voices can be heard, but I remind everybody that there is going to be cuts. Legislators are going to have to make some tough decisions," adds Johnson.
He explains that some services might have to have premium co-payments for health and personal care services, which is a primary concern for people with disabilities. Another option on the table includes reducing the number of beneficiaries at the top of the income ladder on Medicaid in order to protect those at the bottom.
Disability advocates are pushing for mental health hospitals in Savannah and Columbus to be shut down, and the funds redirected to community-based housing and support services for the residents. But, despite skyrocketing medical costs, they will remain open because more citizens implored their legislators to keep them open.
"Closing the hospital was not an option," explains Johnson. "We can find other ways to save those funds. Taxpayers across the country cannot afford to pay for all the healthcare that citizens need, we have to make some tough choices ... some programs need to be enhanced, but we can't do that without the funds."
Similarly, citizen feedback played into the decision not to close any prisons this year, either. As voters try to influence legislative decisions, the most controversial bills can get so hung up in committee that they never reach the voting floor. The House and Senate depend on Johnson to assure that each proposed bill finds its way through and out of committee and to the floor for vote.
To make this happen, Johnson's first session as a Senator Pro Tem found him scaling down his outspoken demeanor and straining for bipartisan cooperation to move legislation through the system and avoid stalemates. During the assembly, Johnson, Senate president, Lt. Gov. Mark Taylor (D-Albany) and Majority Leader Tom Price, (R-Roswell) meet daily to assure that bills pass through committees and onto the floor for the vote.
Johnson advises Georgians not to expect new programs or funding increases to flow from this session. With revenues predicted to be down $440 million to $1 billion in fiscal year 2003 (July 1, 2003, to June 30, 2004, in Georgia), Johnson is steeling himself for a tough session filled with hard decisions and dissatisfaction among constituents competing for austere budget dollars.
Continued on Page 23

Veteran Statesman Says

continued from page 17

The Eastman, Ga., native is accustomed to hard work and good old-fashion preparation. Prior to opening this year's legislative session, Coleman has established a preliminary schedule for the House, something that was not in place in 2003. This year's "Coleman's Initiatives" include regular meetings, and a pre-established schedule for committee meetings, joint sessions and budget hearings.
The wild-card in any legislative session is the budget, the allocation of state resources. Coleman is braced for a stormy winter but is optimistic about producing good results.
The appropriations committee and several subcommittees have been meeting regularly over the past several weeks, reports the speaker. "We've spent considerable time meeting with state department heads who are bracing for additional cuts in funding which we hope will not happen," he says.
"There is a great deal of uncertainty and we can't predict the future," Coleman says. "Every fluctuation in the amount of revenue collected by the state then reverberates into all departments large and small. It impacts on specific programs and services."
"Even department heads and legislators are on edge, frustrated, because the state and national economy are not where
"It's about relationships, but involvement is also important during the session. Even if something comes
up at the last minute, a letter, mail or call helps."

Speaker of the House Terry Coleman
we would like them to be," Coleman says. "All they can do is propose things and make backup plans. It's just that kind of time of uncertainty." This year, everyone will be faced with even more difficult budget decisions than they had to make last year, and that spells reduced services, very few new programs and stagnant fees for services. Legislators are looking hard at maximizing revenue by supporting programs, such as Medicaid and PeachCare that leverage federal money.
"To be able to draw down federal funds will be one of the highest priorities we have," says Coleman. "Especially when it comes to taking care of people who cannot take care of themselves [without support services]."
Coleman warns that reduced financial reports mean belt tightening for those who rely on state funding.
Speaker Coleman is an advocate for activism and wants to build successful relationships with advocates in the disability community.
"Proponents and advocates are going to have to stay involved, be in the know and be available to answer questions," the speaker advises. He wants advocates "to stay involved year-
Continued on Page 23

Winter 2004

19

Letter Writing An Important Way to Promote YOUR Disability Agenda

Communication is an essential part of YOUR relationship with elected or appointed officials who make decisions. Letter writing is an important way to communicate your concerns or support for a legislative or budget item. Here are sample letters for your use:

Representative's/Senator's Name

Address Street, City, State

Date

Dear Representative/Senator (Last Name),
(In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and let the person know you live in

Governor Sonny Perdue State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30303

his/her district.)
SAMPLE: My name is lived here in Homerville

Alice I. for the

Citizen. I'm 36 past eight year,

years old and I in your district.

(Clearly state your situation including the type of action or services you need
aSNhhspahcnIAeeadnuraowrlodMrdrpwvmaesdihciPniayeugnbse..tL)ecgusoEtMtAt,dtioFn:vsigenaIelceydyIg.chtociiwhMcloogouieataoou'uyyrised,lestmdesrbbooawtobwufoolyireatbhvmnbcfieeetvaeamhwrecduaeoiriisa,wsltnaiethftbianeoysasra-dmrehbant,hdethyaohmiisotonPcseowamogeuwdwbausheawtccinllednahieoatrndryefanelS'.int.GdvftIieadMIgxew.tcieloenyiaotbvrgnremgiehostimeiamon6htl'pmoys9auPpnlmmteboyopiaeetnaeicy.aesgath-trerIblasstSaane.yaotnrseInamaelfedddtdtdeI

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Thank you for your attention. Sincerely,

depend on it.

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call me at

the

address/phone

number

me what you intend to do to help. My

vote, and want our representative to help

us live independently.

Your name, address and telephone # cc: Representative ...
Senator...

Thank you very much,

Alice I. Voter
(add your phone number and address are in his/her district and will know how

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because

the

person

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immediately

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if

you

20

Making A DIFFERENCE

Our Sponsors -
Help us to improve our editorial content as
well as print additional copies of this magazine. We appreciate
their support and yours.

Albany Advocacy Resource Center
Albany ARC serving our community
since 1963 promotes the general welfare of people with disabilities and foster the development of programs on their behalf.
(229) 888-6852 (24-hour on-call) www.albanyarc.org
Beth English, Director 1906 Palmyra Road
Albany, Ga 31701 (229) 439-7061
Winter 2004

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(404) 508-7796 Fax (404)508-6443
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21

Medical Update

Jos Cordero Crusades to
Reduce Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities
By Renita Mathis

I t is a sobering reality that approximately 54 million people in the United States currently live with a disability, and 17 percent of U.S. children under age 18 have a developmental disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These growing public health concerns led the CDC to launch the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities. Created April 2001 by the Children's Health Act of 2000, NCBDDD works to improve the health of children and adults by preventing birth defects and developmental disabilities, promoting optimal child development, as well as ensuring health and wellness among children and adults living with disabilities.
"We want to ensure that every state and local area has a strong program to prevent the birth defects that we can now prevent, such as spina bifida and fetal alcohol syndrome," says Dr. Jos Cordero, NCBDDD director. "Promoting the use of folic acid to prevent spina bifida, and educating the public about the risk of consuming alcohol during pregnancy are two examples of promoting optimal fetal, infant, and child develop-

ment, and preventing birth defects and childhood developmental disabilities."
Well before the creation of NCBDDD, the CDC was already engaged in birth defects and developmental disabilities
research. It was 1988 when the U.S. Congress first appropriated funds for a disabilities prevention program in the National Center for Environmental Health at CDC.
"CDC, whose mission is to improve the health and safety of all people, recognized that to improve an effective public health response in this dynamic and complex field, it would be necessary to have a dedicated center whose primary mission would be to work with and in the birth defects and developmental disabilities community," says Cordero, who received his bachelor's and medical degrees from the University of Puerto Rico, and his master of public health from Harvard University. Cordero, a native of Puerto Rico, joined the CDC in 1979 as one of the first Hispanic Epidemic Intelligence Service workers assigned to the birth defects program. At age 30, Cordero
Continued on Page 23

NCBDDD Partnering Organizations
(www.cdc.gov/ncbddd)
Early Hearing and Detection Intervention (www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/ehdi/) works to ensure early detection and intervention access for infants with hearing loss.
Centers of Excellence on Autism Epidemiology conducts collaborative studies on the prevalence and causes of autism and related developmental disabilities.
The National Limb Loss Information Center (www.amputee-coalition.org) and the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Resource Center (www.paralysis.org) provide information and resources to people who are living with specific disabilities.
The National Center on Physical Activity and Disability encourages physical activity for people who have physical disabilities with specific articles and resources. (www.ncpad.org)
FASSNet and Project CHOICES FASSNet works to improve the surveillance for fetal alcohol syndrome at the state level; Project CHOICES is motivational intervention for women at high risk for an alcohol-exposed pregnancy.
Legacy for Children a set of longitudinal, randomized, controlled studies examining the potential for improving child development outcomes through parenting programs designed to promote self-efficacy and a sense of community.
National Resource Center on AttentionDeficit/Hyperactivity Disorder the country's first and only clearinghouse dedicated to the evidence-based science and treatment of ADHD in adults and children. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
1600 Clifton Road Atlanta, GA 30333 (404) 639-3534; (800) 311-3435 (404) 639-3312 (TTY)

22

Making A DIFFERENCE

was investigating three cases of a rare genetic disease called Barter syndrome. His research uncovered that the infants had a different illness caused by chlorine deficiency in their soy-based baby formula. Due to his work, Congress passed the Infant Formula Act of 1980, requiring that any food intended to be the sole source of nourishment contain all the necessary nutrients for babies to thrive.
Today, the 53-year-old father of four adult children has a career that impassions him. As the NCBDDD director, he is engaged in a variety of research, partnerships, prevention activities, and education programs that strictly address the needs of the disability community.
"Birth defects affect more than 120,000 infants each year in the United States, [which] represents 3 percent, or one in 30, of the infants born nationwide," says Cordero, who is the former president of the Teratology Society, a professional research society devoted to the prevention of birth defects. "More than 5,000 of the babies born with birth defects will die in their first year of life making birth defects the leading cause of infant mortality in the United States."
For these reasons, Cordero is leading the NCBDDD on a crusade to prevent birth defects and developmental disabilities that he knows can be prevented. Although there are birth defects and developmental disabilities that cannot be prevented, Cordero and his team's mission does not change.
"Today, more than 70 percent of all birth defects are of unknown origin, [and] until we know what causes birth defects, prevention will continue to be problematic," he says. "The more information that can be collected and studied, the better our chances of not only developing targeted responses to circumstances and conditions that might contribute to the occurrence of birth defects and developmental disabilities, but also of designing prevention strategies that will effectively mitigate their severity and possibly reduce, or in some cases eliminate, their occurrence.

Vintage Photos
Who's Who?
Match the vintage photographs to the present-day one.

A

B

C

D

1. Heidi Moore Co-founder of SOS Kids and parent advocate

2. David Blanchard
AADD Public Policy Director

3. Tanya McConnell Co-founder of SOS Kids and parent advocate

4. Mary Yoder New AADD Executive Director

Answers: 1-D, 2-C, 3-A, 4-B

Sen. Pro Tem Eric Johnson Says Everyone' Important
continued from page 17
"Everybody's need is the most important. Everyone knows that putting funding in their area now will save money in the long run, but we cannot do it all," says Johnson, whose own sponsored legislation includes child protection laws, supports to rural development and access to criminal information to citizens and a two-year, 10 percent salary reduction for all legislators. "Consumers must meet with their legislators, educate us on what the programs being considered do. If you see waste, if you see savings, identify those."
For Johnson, it's all about a collaborative effort between legislators and their constituencies.

Speaker Coleman Says It's All About Relation
continued from page 17
round and know their legislators as well as those who serve on the appropriations committees.
"By the time the legislative session convenes in January, it's almost too late to begin the advocacy process. I see it as a year-round activity that begins in local communities with local representatives. When we get here to Atlanta, we are involved in a whirlwind of activities that centers around voting. I think we learn the issues and understand the problems best in our home districts, talking to local people about concerns that we can address at a statewide level."
Coleman advises advocates to regularly call, advise and correspond with legislators or their staff members. "It's important to become an informed and reliable source of information," he says.

Winter 2004

23

Discapacidades del Desarrollo en Nios
DATO: Un 17% de los nios de EE.UU. menores de 18 aos de edad tienen una discapacidad del desarrollo.
Las discapacidades del desarrollo son un grupo diverso de limitaciones fsicas, cognitivas, sicolgicas, sensoriales y del habla que comienzan en cualquier momento desde el comienzo del desarrollo hasta los 18 aos de edad. En la mayora de los casos se desconoce la causa de la discapacidad. Por eso es importante entender cuales son los factores que aumentan las posibilidades de que un nio pueda tener una discapacidad en el desarrollo y qu puede hacerse para prevenir esta condicin.
Aproximadamente un 2% de los nios en edad escolar de EE.UU. tienen una grave discapacidad del desarrollo como retraso mental o parlisis cerebral, y requieren servicios educativos especiales o cuidados adicionales.
Los departamentos de educacin estatales y federales gastan unos $36 mil millones de dlares cada ao en programas educativos especiales para personas con discapacidades del desarrollo entre los 3 y los 21 aos de edad.
En los CDC, tenemos uno de los pocos programas en el mundo que realiza un monitoreo activo y constante de la cantidad de nios con discapacidades del desarrollo en una zona metropolitana grande y racialmente diversa.
En 1991, los CDC iniciaron el Programa de Monitoreo Sobre Discapacidades en el Desarrollo Para el rea Metropolitana de Atlanta (MADDSP, por sus siglas en ingls) con el objeto de monitorear el nmero de nios entre 3 y 10 aos de edad que viven en la zona metropolitana de Atlanta y que tienen una o ms de las condiciones siguientes: retraso mental, parlisis cerebral, problemas del odo o mala visin. Los CDC agregaron los trastornos relacionados con el autismo al programa en 1998.
MADDSP tambin ofrece oportunidades para estudios especiales mediante los cuales el personal de CDC puede identificar factores de riesgo para estas discapacidades y determinar la eficacia de los pasos tomados para prevenir las discapacidades.
Actividades Relacionadas de los CDC: El Estudio del Desarrollo Longitudinal de los nios, es un estudio constante sobre los factores de riesgo en las discapacidades del desarrollo entre nios que fueron identificados gracias al MADDSP. El Estudio de Seguimiento de los Nios con Discapacidades en el Desarrollo, que analiza el funcionamiento actual y la presencia de condiciones secundarias entre adultos jvenes que sufren de discapacidades en su desarrollo. Programas para monitorear el nmero de nios con sndrome de alcohol en el feto (FAS por sus siglas en ingls) y para ayudar a las madres con riesgo de tener hijos con FAS para que usen mtodos de control de natalidad y dejen de tomar antes de embarazarse. Estudios basados en la comunidad para aprender lo que pueden hacer los padres para mejorar el desarrollo de su hijo.

Straight Talk

Times Have Changed
By Susan Berch

At birth I was diagnosed with a thyroid condition. I started taking thyroid medication when I was five weeks old. Even

though I take medication, I have a learning disability. My father

encouraged me to be independent and do my very best. My

mother was supportive of this as well.

For the past 10 years, I have worked part time for Jewish

Family and Career Services. In 1993, I moved into my first

apartment with a roommate and have been living on my own

ever since. In March 2003, I bought my own condo. I use public

transportation to and from work and other places as well.

Having a learning disability hasn't always been easy. I get

frustrated when it takes me longer to do my tasks, but I have

learned not to rush. I know I have limitations, but I take great

pride in my accomplishments.

Last year, I participated in and graduated from Partners in

Policymaking, an educational program that teaches people

with disabili-

ties and their

family mem-

bers to know

their rights

and advocate

for themselves.

It's also a lead-

ership training

program

designed to

increase

empowerment

and improve

self-advocacy

skills. Self-

determination

means to have

the freedom

and independ-

ence to help

and influence

others. I really

learned a lot

from taking

this course.

I

am

grateful for my

family, other

parents,

teachers and

friends who

helped me to achieve my highest potential. I try not to let my

fears prevent me from living a full life. I have seen parents who

are overprotective and hold their children back. For example,

adults with disabilities should be able to live on their own,

obtain a job, choose their own friends, and make their own

decisions. It's very unhealthy for parents to shelter their kids

because they won't learn to do things for themselves. Parents

should encourage and allow their young adults to reach for the

stars. People with disabilities can do so much with their lives if

they are only given the opportunity.

We have gone from institutionalizing people to providing

independent living opportunities. I am thankful to be living in

this day and age as an independent, productive member of

society and wish others in my situation the same.

If you are interested in telling your own story of triumph, submit a 500word article with a photo to Straight Talk Editor, c/o GCDD, 2 Peachtree St., SW, Suite 8-210, Atlanta, GA 30303; or e-mail to jnodvin@mayinstitute.org.

We thank the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for this submission. For more information, call Centro Nacional de los Defectos Congnitos y 24 Deficiencias del Desarrollo at (770) 488-7150.

Making A DIFFERENCE

People Who Make a Difference continued from Page 12

Ex-Peace Corps Volunteer Turns Disability Advocate

Whether it's helping families access benefits for their loved ones with disabilities or helping people with disabilities become advocates, Dave Blanchard is the

go-to guy.

As director of public policy for the Atlanta Alliance on

Developmental Disabilities,

Blanchard took his global

experience earned with the

Peace Corps in New Guinea

and translated it into

addressing disability issues

in Georgia.

"I think [what I do

now] is similar to my Peace

Corps experience in that the

only way you can succeed as

an advocate is to sit down

and listen to others and

Ex-Peace Corps Volunteer Turns Disability Advocate

work in collaboration to try to find where the consensus lies and from that move for-

ward."

After a two-year stint in the Peace Corps, where he and his

wife developed a peer education program and taught English,

math and history in a distance-education program, the couple

came to Atlanta in 1997 where Blanchard began his advocacy

work with Babies Can't Wait. In 1999, he joined Atlanta

Alliance on Developmental Disabilities and continued his pro-

fessional aim to "connect people with resources."

According to David Braddock, author of "Disability at the

Dawn of the 21st Century and the States of the States," in

2002, Georgia was ranked 44th in the nation for the amount of

dollars spent on community-based services. In 2000, the state

was ranked 50th.

Blanchard's charge as an advocate and registered lobbyist

with AADD is to work with other local and regional agencies

and organizations to help the state move toward meeting the

needs of more than 3,900 individuals currently waiting for com-

munity-based services.

"The thing I enjoy most is working with families and indi-

viduals living these issues," observes Blanchard. "I try to help them

get over hurdles and around obstacles. Their passion, energy and

commitment are very inspiring. I also enjoy the challenge and

importance of these issues."

In addition to his advocacy responsibilities for AADD

which has a three-prong mission of education, community

enrichment and advocacy - Blanchard also manages the organi-

zation's Partners in Policymaking Graduate and Alumni

Programs.

Citing the civil rights movement as an example, Blanchard

says the disability movement, at the end of the day, wants to

achieve the same goal, "a chance to be at the table where deci-

sions are made and have a say in where they live, the jobs they

Winter 2004

hold, and to have an opportunity to play and learn on an equal playing field."
Visit the AADD Web site at www.aadd.org, or call (404) 881-9777.

Disability Advocate Drives Movement

It was a diving accident at the age of 19 that left Mark Johnson with a spinal cord

injury. Soon after the accident,

Johnson noticed people treated

him differently because he was in

a wheelchair. It was then that he

decided to get involved in advo-

cacy.

Today, he is not only a self-

advocate, Johnson also serves as

an advocate for thousands of

Disability Advocate Drive Movement

other people with disabilities.

As director of advocacy for the

Shepherd Center since 1986, he says his mission is to "stir, con-

nect and organize.

"I either ask questions or encourage people to ask ques-

tions,"he says. "If they want to do something about [an issue], I

connect them with people or help them get organized."

Johnson's role as an advocate for the Shepherd Center runs

the gamut. On any given day, he can be found managing or

advising on multiple projects. Johnson administers a list serve

of 10,000 members, sending out alerts on disability issues.

Currently, he is working in conjunction with People First to rec-

ognize the fifth anniversary of the Olmstead Decision in June,

and with the American Association of People with Disabilities

and ADA Watch to recognize the 15th anniversary of the

Americans with Disabilities Act in 2005.

Ultimately, Johnson's work boils down to engaging new

people around the concerns of the disabled and helping the

community go from old ways of thinking: "those with the dis-

ability are the problem" to new ways of thinking: "those with

the disability are a part of the solution," he says.

And his work in the disability community has been part of the

solution. In 1977, Johnson founded the National Paraplegia

Foundation. His advocacy has also included positions with the

state of Colorado's Division of Rehabilitation and the Charlotte

Rehabilitation Hospital in Charlotte, N.C. He has volunteered

as a board member for a number of Atlanta-based organiza-

tions including Easy Living Home Coalition, Unlock the Waiting

Lists! Campaign, Disability Law & Policy Center, and Making A

Difference magazine.

For Johnson, political activism and representation are

essential to the success of the disability movement. "If politi-

cians don't know your issues, nothing gets done. You have to

put a face on the issue. If they see you and hear you, they find

it harder to resist, to ignore."

25

Resources
Always begin first by contacting the local agencies in your community or county when you need help. For a comprehensive list of resources in Georgia for all subject areas, please visit: www.disabilityresources.org/GEORGIA.htm
State Agencies:
The state agencies listed below are recognized as those who provide "best practice" services and information to people in Georgia.
The ARC of Georgia (404) 634-5512, Fax: (404) 634-9512 www.arcga.org
Babies Can't Wait Children With Special Needs Division of Public Health, Department of Human Resources (404) 657-2726 or (888) 651-8224 www.ph.dhr.state.ga.us/programs/bcw/
Georgia Advocacy Office (404) 885-1234 or (800) 537-2329 FAX: (770) 414-2948 http://thegao.org
Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities (404) 657-2126 or (888) 275-4233 Fax (404) 657-2132 www.gcdd.org
Parent to Parent of Georgia Inc. (770) 451-5484 or (800) 229-2038 Fax: (770) 458-4091 www.parenttoparentofga.org
Statewide Independent Living Council of Georgia Inc. (770) 270-6860 or (888) 288-9780 Fax: (770) 270-5957 www.silcga.org
University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Institute on Human Development and Disability (706) 542-3457, Fax: (706) 542-4815 www.uap.uga.edu
Elected Officials and Government Offices:
Information on Georgia Government Web Sites: www.georgia.gov
Georgia General Assembly www2.state.ga.us/Legis
Georgia House of Representatives (404) 656-5082 or (800) 282-5800 http://www.legis.state.ga.us/legis/2003_0 4/house/index.htm

Georgia Senate (404) 656-0028 or (800) 282-5803 http://www.legis.state.ga.us/legis/2003_0 4/senate/index.htm
Office of Governor (404) 656-1776 www.ganet.org/governor
Office of Lieutenant Governor (404) 656-5030 www.ganet.org/ltgov
Office of Attorney General (404) 656-3300 www.ganet.org/ago
Secretary of State's Office (404) 656-2881 www.sos.state.ga.us
Advocacy Organizations:
NATIONAL:
The Access Board www.access-board.gov
ADAPT (303) 733-9324 www.adapt.org
ADAWatch (202) 661-4722 www.adawatch.org
Advocating Change Together (800) 641-0059, Fax: (651) 641-4053 www.selfadvocacy.com
American Association of People with Disabilities (800) 840-8844 www.aapd.com
AAMR (800) 424-3688 www.aamr.org/Policies/policy_issues.shtml
The ARC www.thearclink.org
Center for Self Determination (734) 213-5220, Fax: (734) 213-5229 www.self-determination.com
Concrete Change www.concretechange.org
National Council on Independent Living (703) 525-3406 www.ncil.org
National Organization on Disability (202) 293-5960 www.nod.org
Not Dead Yet (708) 209-1500 www.notdeadyet.org
SE Disability & Business Technical Assistance Center (800) 949-4232 www.sedbtac.org
STATE:
The Arc of Georgia (404) 634-5512, Fax: (404) 634-9512 www.arcga.org

Atlanta Alliance on Developmental Disabilities (404) 881-9777 www.aadd.org
Budget Coalition (678) 471-3804 Democracydawning@comcast.net
disABILITY LINK (404) 687-8890 or (800) 239-2507 www.disabilitylink.org
Georgia Council on Aging (404) 657-5343 www.gcoa.org
Georgia Federation of the Blind Anil Lewis anilewis@bellsouth.net
Georgia Public Interest Research Group (404) 892-3573 www.georgiapirg.org
League of Women Voters Georgia (678) 547-0755 www.lwvga.org
Mental Health Consumers Network www.mcg.edu/Resources/MH/Index.html
People First David Mapp (404) 687-8890
Save Our Special Kids (SOS) (770) 777-0242 TanyaMcC@bellsouth.net
Unlock! Sarita Reddy (706) 543-9959 Reddysarita@hotmail.com
OUR SPONSORS:
Albany ARC (229) 888-6852 http://www.albanyarc.org
ARC Cobb (770) 427-8401, Fax: (770) 427-8402 director@arccobb.org
Children's Special Services, LLC (770) 394-9791, Fax: (770) 394-7803 http://www.childrens-services.com
DeKalb Developmental Disabilities Council (404) 508-7796, Fax: (404) 508-6443
Easter Seals Southern Georgia (229) 439-7061 or (800) 365-4583 Fax: (229) 435-6278 http://www.swga-easterseals.org
Georgia Community Support & Solutions (404) 634-4222, Fax: (404) 634-1324 www.gacommunity.org
May South (770) 956-8511, Fax: (770) 956-8907 http://www.maysouth.org
United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia (770) 676-2000 or (800) UCP-WILL Fax: (770) 455 - 8040 www.ucpga.org

26

Making A DIFFERENCE

Calendar

January 2004
14 17
ATIA (Assistive Technology Industry Assn.) 2004 Conference Lake Buena Vista, FL (877) 687-2842 www.atia.org
15
The Arc of Georgia Legislative Day (404) 634-5512 www.arcga.org
Mental Health Day at the Capitol National Mental Health Assn of GA (404) 527-7175
15 16
GCDD Quarterly Council Meeting Renaissance Hotel, Atlanta (404) 657-2127 www.gcdd.org
16
SILC (Statewide Independent Living Council) of Georgia Winter Meeting Atlanta/Decatur (770) 270-6860 Toll Free: 888-288-9780 www.silcga.org
22 24
Health Action 2004: National Grassroots Meeting Renaissance Mayflower Hotel Washington, DC. (202) 628-3030 www.familiesusa.org
23 25
State Indoor Winter Games Special Olympics Georgia Basketball, bowling, figure skating, floor hockey, gymnastics, Powerlifting, roller skating, speed skating, alpine skiing (770) 414-9390 www.specialolympicsga.org
UPCOMING CONFERENCES:
February 26, 2004 Disability Day 2004
Now we are getting ready for D Day 2004! Mark your calendar for Thursday, Feb. 26, 2004. (404) 657-2132 www.gcdd.org

February 2004
4
17th Annual Legislative Breakfast Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies (HMHB) (770) 451-0020 www.hmhbga.org
4
Dr. Ro Vision Series Athens (706) 546-0009
11 12
Poor People's Day at the Capitol Atlanta, GA (404) 622-7778
12
Substance Abuse Advocacy Day at the Capitol www.gasubstanceabuse.org
16
AARP Georgia Weeks at the Capitol March 5 (404) 870 3791 www.aarp.org/ga
19
"Under One Roof" Housing Conference Fort Valley State University (478) 825-6954 thomasb@fvsu.edu 19 PTA Day at the Capitol (404) 659-0214
25
Building Life's, Building Communities Best Practice Conference, transitioning people out of institutions rrtuttle@disabilitylink.org or mark_Johnson@shepherd.org
26
Disability Day at the Capitol 2004 (404) 657-2132 www.gcdd.org
27 29
Knowledge is Power: Take A Leap Regional Conference on Down Syndrome & Other Developmental Disabilities (404) 320-3233 www.down-syndrome-atlanta.org
28
Metro Atlanta Champs in JV and Varsity Competition at National Indoor Wheelchair Soccer Tournament American Assn. Of Adapted Sports Programs www.aaasp.org/

UPCOMING CONFERENCES:
March17-20, 2004 Better All Together
Better All Together #6: Inclusion Works! Topics inclued inclusion after graduation from school.
April 28 - May 1, 2004 Immersion Learning About Self-Determination
Center for Self-Determination in Partnership with the Georgia Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities Atlanta
March 2004
24
Senior Week at the Capitol Georgia Council on Aging (404) 657-5343 www.gcoa.org/
5
State Wheelchair Basketball State Finals American Assn. Of Adapted Sports Programs www.aaasp.org/
67
A Decade of Learning... The Journey Continues! The Larry Bregman, M.D. Educational Series a workshop for adults with developmental disabilities and their caregivers sponsored by: Jewish Family & Career Services (770) 677-9341 www.bregman.org
9
Suicide Prevention and Awareness Day at the Capitol (770) 740-0632 www.span-ga.org/
17 20
Better All Together: Inclusion Works! Inclusive Education Conference Peachtree Wyndham, Peachtree City http://www.gcdd.org
24 28
2004 Habima Theater Production of "Music Man, Jr." Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (770) 395-2601

Winter 2004

27

Volume 4 Issue 3 Winter 2004

Making A DIFFERENCE
The quarterly magazine of the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities

Making A Difference Advisory Board

Marlene R. Bryar Associate Director, Exceptional Students GA Dept. of Education & GCDD board Member

Heidi Fernandez GCDD Board Member 2003 Partners Class

Virginia Harris Executive Director, Bainbridge Advocacy Individual Network (BAIN)

Mark Johnson Advocacy Director, Shepherd Center GCDD Marketing & Communications Committee

Carlos Keilhauer Vice President, Wachovia Bank GA Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

10
SOS Kids Attracts Advocates From Around Metro Area
More than 200 advocates participate at November rally to protest proposed budget cuts to programs for children with disabilities

Pat Puckett Executive Director, Statewide Independent Living Councils of Georgia

-- LEGISLATIVE ISSUE --

Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities
2 Peachtree Street, N.W., Ste 8-210 Atlanta, GA 30303-3142 (404) 657-2126 www.gcdd.org
Address Service Requested