by Mary Mazzoni on May 16, 2013
A new website is connecting and empowering self advocates around the country.
Self Advocacy Online is a project of the Arc and The University of Minnesota’s Research and Training Center on Community Living.
The site is designed to be user-friendly for people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities. Self Advocacy Online empowers users with information and skills needed to speak up and take action toward their own goals. Its growing data base of local self advocacy groups helps users to connect in real life (IRL) as well as online. Read more→
by Mary Mazzoni on May 12, 2013

There are marvelous moments when we receive what only our child can give. Gifts that need no pretty paper, and can be stored only in our heart.
Everyday busy-ness distracts us. But these receiving moments are timeless. Mom moments.
They change us. Stretching who we are, shaping our relationship with our child.
How might we open space for these moments? Read more→
by Mary Mazzoni on May 4, 2013
When a son or daughter needs life-long support, parents ask -”what will happen when I’m gone?”.
It’s a difficult question, sometimes unspoken, but always present.
When we address the question head-on, we move beyond fear to positive action.
In addition to a last will and testament, you will need to work with a qualified attorney and financial advisor to establish and fund a special needs trust.
But how can you communicate the many details of your child’s unique needs and preferences that, together, contribute to his or her quality of life?
A Letter of Intent can guide those who will support your son or daughter when you can no longer do so yourself. Read more→
by Mary Mazzoni on April 20, 2013
Every state has a federally funded vocational rehabilitation (VR) agency.
There are differences in the ways states administer vocational rehabilitation services. Different names are used to describe the agencies in each state.
Yet, all state VR agencies have a single purpose – to assist persons with disabilities to attain and maintain employment.
It is important for your son or daughter to understand how your state’s VR agency can support his or her career goals. Read more→