Disability Leadership Collaborative is an informal gathering of some 40 non-profit leaders, educators and others in the disability community who meet the third Tuesday of the month to network, share resources, and listen and talk with invited speakers.

This month’s special guest is Sheila Moore, the CEO of The Arc Davidson County & Greater Nashville, who will talk with us about their new Lifelong Advocacy Program. The Program will work with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to make sure the advocacy needs of loved ones are addressed after the parents are no longer able to address them. From the time a parent learns their child has a disability, parents work tirelessly to access and manage resources and supports for every part of their child’s life, in addition to providing parental love and support. Then the day comes when parents start to consider what happens to their child after the parents are gone or no longer able to care for their child. While many families have other children or trusted family members to handle medical and financial matters when the parents are gone, parents want to be sure their child has the advocacy they provided and do not want to overwhelm those who are assuming medical and financial responsibilities. The Arc Davidson County’s Lifelong Advocacy Program will not replace the bond a parent shares with a child. They will, however, work in partnership with clients and their families and/or trustees to ensure their concerns are addressed. The individuals with IDD will have a trusted confidant, guide, and experienced advocate who will be by their side just as their families have arranged.

The Arc Davidson County will soon be releasing more information on this new program on their website.

If you’d like to join the Disability Leadership Collaborative, contact Carolyn Naifeh for more information. Members will be emailed a Zoom link for this virtual December gathering.