YTD Family Panel
For many project sites, the 2009 YTD National Conference meant a beginning; for other sites, it meant the end of a demonstration grant. The end, in this, case means the seeds that have been planted will continue to grow and yield blooms for many years. These blooms are a result of the efforts of many dedicated, passionate family members encouraged by professionals in the field of disabilities who were just as dedicated and passionate, and, who believed that life changes were possible.
The Family Panel session was one of the most arousing and informative sessions held during the conference; it was a snapshot into the world of parenting an individual with special needs. It was an opportunity for parents to share what the experience of going to work, going to school or buying a home meant to the family and to the young man/woman with a disability. That opportunity has opened doors that family members had not envisioned possible. These young people have turned stereotypical scenarios around and are progressing in school, on jobs, in life; providing for parents who thought they would always have to provide for that child.
The family members talked about persistent project staff armed with information on benefits, available resources, employment/education opportunities, but most of all, hope and a vision of life changes. Those staff members and families worked together in conjunction with schools and other agencies to overcome barriers which stand in the way for a person with a disability to be successful.
The audience was in awe and in some instances was brought to tears at the heart-to-heart stories that were told one after another; expressing appreciation, leaving hopelessness behind and looking forward to bright futures. The parents, who thought of their young adults as “my child”, are now thought of as “my young man/woman.” One can always read about stories and wonder are these real people we are talking about, but, to sit in that audience and watch and listen to family members speak so passionately of newly found self confidence, initiative, and hope in a person with a disability, was… awesome.
Top Left: Marie Hamilton - Parent of MYTI Participant, Richard Balkus - Associate Commissioner Office of Program Development and Research, Dale Sims - Parent of MYTI Participant