Dear friends,
I was grateful to be a panelist on last week’s NYS Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) Provider Network Webinar, “Identifying and Addressing Disparities in Disability Supports and Services,” hosted with Georgetown University’s National Center for Cultural Competence (NCCC). Huge thanks to Tawara Goode and her amazing team!
Over 160 provider agencies from across New York came together for some real talk about inequities and what it will take to fix them.
I was also part of a second, cross-systems session that brought together state agency officials from multiple systems over 320 people logged in! It was an honor to share a parent’s perspective alongside self-advocates and system leaders.
These sessions are being integrated into statewide cross-systems and provider trainings, which is exciting. As always, I tried to be strength-based, salty, and hold nothing back.
Stay warm,
Simcha
NEW DADVOCATING PODCAST EPISODE
“The Art of Advocacy: Inclusive Casting in the Entertainment Industry”
As we wrap up #NDEAM (National Disability Employment Awareness Month), I’ve been thinking about what true inclusion really means, not just in workplaces, but in representation. Who gets to be seen, heard, and hired?
In this new episode, I talk with legendary casting director Robin Carus about how lived experience changes everything in casting and why authentic representation of disabled and neurodivergent artists matters.
Listen on Spotify – Listen on Apple Podcasts
Robin also shares insights on the new NYC Accessibility Fund, her advocacy for inclusion, and a hilarious Sacha Baron Cohen/Borat story you don’t want to miss.
Upcoming Statewide Peer Support Training (FTNYS / OMH-Certified)
Our next statewide session will be held on Monday November 24, exploring the dangers of passive screen time and how peers and parents can help youth build healthier digital habits.
Our last session had an incredible turnout and energy, thank you to everyone who joined! This one’s open to parents, caregivers, and peer professionals, and will offer practical, evidence-based strategies you can use right away.
REGISTER HERE
Autistic Jewish Discussion Circle (with Matti)
Topic: Nervous System Responses to Tradition, Practice, and Mitzvot
Sunday, Nov 16
12:30 PM Pacific | 3:30 PM Eastern | 8:30 PM London
A relaxed, peer-led Zoom space to reflect, connect, and share lived experiences in community.
REGISTER HERE
Superheroes and mental health
And if anyone’s in Albany this Thursday, I’ll be at the Colonie Town Library talking about two of my favorite topics, superheroes and mental health. Say hi!
