from the San Francisco Chronicle, May 28, 2012

http://bit.ly/KPuz40

This article is just one expression of the terribly unjust situation we special needs families find ourselves facing in California.  The means cutoff Governor Brown is proposing for California Childrens Services medical therapies is laughable, and will leave thousands of middle and lower class children without the professional guidance and resources they need to flourish as independent members of society, and their families without alternatives for helping their children succeed.

Happy Mother’s Day to all you fellow mamas out there advocating for an open, welcoming world for our kids! xo

May Events: Access to Adventure & SFUSD Special Olympics

Two events to check out this weekend in San Francisco…

May 5th > 2012 Access to Adventure

Support for Families’  fabulous annual fair where you can explore fitness and recreation programs that are inclusive of youth with special health care needs and disabilities, play games and enjoy live music.

 

May 11th > 2012 SFUSD School Partnership Program Special Olympics

Over 700 student athletes compete at this annual track and field compeition, from 10AM-1PM in Kezar Stadium.

5/2 Webinar: California Childrens Services Medical Therapy Program Means Test – The Pros and Cons

from Family Voices of California

“Please join us for a webinar regarding the Governor’s proposal to establish a CCS Medical Therapy Program means test.  We will be joined by Robert Dimand, Chief Medical Officer, CCS and Laurie Soman Director, CRISS Project/Director, Alameda County Medical Home Project/Senior Policy Analyst, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital to discuss the pros and cons of the proposal.”

When:  Wednesday 5/2, 12noon-1PM PST

 

Registration Web Link > https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/139312002 

MTV Voices Launches Silver Scorpion Superhero Web Series

from Open Hands Initiative

April 24, 2012

“The Open Hands Initiative, in partnership with Liquid Comics and MTV Voices, announced today the newest rendition of the Silver Scorpion comic book character – an animated web series featuring the world’s first disabled cross-cultural superhero.

Silver Scorpion is the brainchild of a group of American and Syrian youths with disabilities who gathered in Damascus a little more than a year ago. The hero they envisioned, an Arab teen that loses his legs in a tragic accident, has the power to not only bend metal with his mind, but—the creators hope—to transform his world… and ours.”

> Read more

> Watch Episode 1!

Know a hero? Nominate them for The 2012 Presidential Citizens Medal!

from The White House, April 16, 2012

“We’re  looking for Americans who have made a difference in their communities but who may not have received national attention. Does that sound like someone you know?  Visit WhiteHouse.gov/CitizensMedal and nominate a hero in your community today!“

> Nominations due April 24, 2012; all guidelines and criteria can be found on the website.

 

High school student founds non-profit to foster inclusion for those with disabilities

San Jose Mercury News—March 15, 2012

“Cupertino High student dreams of opportunities for those with disabilities”

> Read the article

> Visit WorldWeDream – “Change the world through inspiration and compassion”