ADDPC's blog

by Fabiola Cervantes, Guest Writer

Our Voices features guest bloggers in their own words sounding off on disability issues in Arizona.  

Fabiola Cervantes is finishing up a Masters of Social Work degree at Arizona State University this spring. Early on, she realized that people navigate the world how they can, with the tools they are given. She’s worked in a wide variety of different focus areas, including alongside veterans, homeless families, children, and individuals with mental health needs.

by Erica McFadden, Executive Director

When it comes to better ways to talk about sexual health and positive body boundaries for young Arizonans with developmental disabilities, families know something must change.

“We put our hands on children with disabilities more than neurotypical kids," one parent told us.  Another family member acknowleged it's extremely dangerous to simply teach young people with disabilities "compliance" without also teaching boundaries, safety and a sense of self.

by Erica McFadden, Executive Director

The holidays can be stressful for some people, especially in 2020. But for reasons different than you would think. 

by ADDPC Staff

COVID-19 has been difficult for many, with changing routines and ways of living. There’s no doubt the pandemic has been especially hard on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) who rely on routine and supports to get through the day.

By Kari McBride, Guest Writer

Our Voices is a series featuring guest bloggers in their own words sounding off on disability issues in Arizona.  

Kari McBride is currently pursing her Masters in Social Work at Arizona State University. She previously obtained her bachelors degree in family and human development and has desired to work with children and families since graduating. At home, she is the mother to a 7-year-old little girl who has developmental and intellectual disabilities and the most infectious little smile. 

by Sarah Ruf, Communications Director

October 2020 marks the 75th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and a new coffee shop serving up delicious drinks and baked goods is proving how Arizona young adults with disabilities can be employed in the community.

by Sarah Ruf, Communications Director

Arizona residents with disabilities chose better interaction with medical care providers as the highest priority for self-advocates in a survey this summer by a coalition of statewide disability groups.

by Michele Stokes, Guest Writer

Our Voices is a series featuring guest bloggers in their own words sounding off on disability issues in Arizona.  

Michele Stokes serves as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance Specialist for the City of Tempe.

It's hard to admit to myself... except in the deep hours of the night... let alone to others... The soul-deep grief impact of this time. It is almost as deep as the grief I felt when my first husband died...

by Julie Whitaker, Program Project Specialist

It’s 2020, which means it’s another presidential election year! Discussions around the election increase and voter turnout are typically higher with presidential elections, so we thought it was important to share activities the ADDPC has organized around voter registration and ensuring positive voting experiences for people with disabilities.

by Sarah Ruf, Community Relations Specialist

We’re excited to announce that for the first time ever, a supported decision-making bill has gained a hearing in the House Judiciary Committee at the Arizona House of Representatives.