THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER
Greetings!

We're in the Dog Days of Summer, but don't let the heat keep a smile off your face! There's plenty of exciting news, updates and events happening this summer, and we've got them all right here for YOU.
A SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY
On July 30, 1996, the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush, a momentous day for individuals with a disability and their families.

Now, 33 years later, we're looking at a country with a strong, national network of advocates and champions for equal opportunities. We've accomplished so much in 33 years, but there's more to be done -- together. Join us in our mission toward inclusion, integration and independence for all.

Click the button below to learn more about the anniversary of the ADA and how you can celebrate this year!
PARTNERS IN POLICYMAKING
Partners in Policymaking is a national leadership and disability advocacy training program for individuals with developmental disabilities and their family members.

The program is looking for self-advocates who want to gain the skills and experience to improve policy, service systems, and fully participate in community life! We do ask that only self-advocates and family members of individuals with developmental disabilities apply.

The application process closes on October 1, 2023. Click here to learn more about Partners in Policymaking or click on the button below to apply for partnership!

*Images courtesy of Partners in Policymaking, a program within the Arkansas Alliance for Disability Advocacy. GCDD funds the AADA through a network partnership with Disability Rights Arkansas.
DISABILITY PRIDE MONTH
July is Disability Pride Month, an annual month-long celebration of the disability community and the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act. To celebrate, we asked GCDD employee Kimberly Gatewood to write about what Disability Pride Month means to her.
Kim is a native Arkansan, a person with disabilities, a self-advocate, and a disability advocate for her grandchildren and for others. She has served on a local service provider’s advocacy committee, encouraging others to participate in self-advocacy. Kim is a current board member for the Arkansas State Independent Living Council. When not hard at work in advocacy, Kim enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, going to the movies, attending church, and singing karaoke.

You can read Kimberly's blog by clicking on the button below!
COMMUNITY EVENTS
CAMP CONNECT 2023

Where: Salem United Methodist Church-Conway
When: July 31 - Aug 4 | 9am - 2pm
Apply: Click Here


ADULTS ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM SUPPORT GROUP
  • August 22 - Adults on the Autism Spectrum Support Group
River City Coffee - 2913 Kavanaugh Blvd. Little Rock, Arkansas

  • August 26 - Dr. Eyers Puberty and Beyond Educational/Support Workshop
2nd Baptist Church - 2600 Dave Ward Dr. Conway, Arkansas
Looking to soak in the sunshine and experience plenty of summer FUN? There's still time! Community Connections Arkansas is hosting tennis, golf, fishing, pet clubs, sport clinics, yoga, gardening and more events for children with disabilities and their families all summer long! Click the link below to find events in your area and join in the fun.

Image Courtesy: Community Connections Arkansas
Arkansas Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities