Sentinels Spotlight
June 2021
Sherlock Sentinels
The Sentinels, persons with disabilities and family members, advise and inform the Sherlock Center on needs within Rhode Island. The Sentinels Spotlight highlights recent and upcoming activities. You are receiving this email as a friend of the Sherlock Sentinels at the Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities, Rhode Island College.
Welcome our Sentinels Facilitator!
"I have gone through times in my life where it has been difficult, but I believe people with disabilities can do anything they want if they persevere." - Conor
Conor O'Brien
Conor O'Brien is a 2019 graduate of Rhode Island College where he earned a bachelor's degree in Political Science and Policy and a 2015 graduate of Coventry High School. Conor joins the Sherlock Center part-time. He will facilitate the Sherlock Sentinels and the Sentinels Advisory Committee. In addition to advocating for people with disabilities, Conor loves the superhero universe, politics, policy, anime, and reading non-fiction. Conor was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at the age of three. He will use his experience as a person with a disability and experience advocating for others to lead and support the Sherlock Sentinels.
You can contact Conor by email or phone:

Phone: (401) 456-2763
TTY via RI Relay: 711 or (800) 745-5555
Spanish via RI Relay: 711 or (866) 355-9241
Sentinels Advisory Committee
Now recruiting new members!
The Sherlock Sentinels Advisory Committee has openings for new members. If you or someone you know would like to become a member, please contact Conor O'Brien by email at [email protected] or leave a message at (401) 456-2763. Interested individuals will complete an application and participate in an interview.
Members are
  • people with disabilities,
  • family members, and
  • representatives from organizations in Rhode Island that support people with disabilities and the disability community.
Members will
  • meet six times a year,
  • help the Sherlock Center to understand the needs of persons with disabilities living in Rhode Island and their families, and
  • give input on the Sherlock Center's goals and five-year plan.
The Sherlock Center's goal is to have an Advisory Committee that represents all of Rhode Island. Physical, language, and material accommodations are provided as needed. Members receive a stipend for attending meetings and to help with transportation expenses. All meetings are currently held on Zoom due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Making Connections in Rhode Island
At the April Advisory Committee meeting, members talked about the many challenges people with disabilities are facing during the pandemic, especially staying connected socially.
The Arc Rhode Island is offering a safe and easy way to connect with Circles of Connections! Circles can provide:
  • New friends and an online circle of support
  • A way to learn new things
  • A listening ear, advice, or help navigating complicated systems
  • A way to make sure you are getting all the services and supports you or your family need
  • Advocacy skills to help you live the life you want
Visit a National Park Virtually!
Did you know that you can travel across the country to 31 national parks without ever leaving home? Use the link below to take a virtual hike or simply see breathtaking trails and views.
Mountains at Sequioa National Park
Sequioa National Park, photo courtesy of Ray_Explores
Sentinels Mailing List
If you or someone you know is interested in keeping in touch with the Sherlock Sentinels, please join our mailing list. Mailing list members will receive our newsletter, announcements, and event invitations.
Stay Connected!