Sentinels Spotlight

A newsletter of the Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities

October 2021

Sherlock Sentinels

The Sentinels, persons with disabilities and family members, advise and inform the Sherlock Center on needs within Rhode Island. You are receiving this email as a friend of the Sherlock Sentinels at the Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities, Rhode Island College.

What's Next RI?

Image of Amy Grattan a white woman with medium brown hair wearing a gray sweater.

A message from Amy Grattan, Executive Director

I am happy to tell you that the Sherlock Center is writing its next five-year plan. The plan will be our road map to the services we will offer and the projects we will do.

The Sherlock Center wants to hear what matters to you in school, at work, and in your community. In November, we will hold listening sessions using Zoom. We will also send a survey for people who like to give information in writing. Watch for more details!

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)

The theme for NDEAM 2021, “America’s Recovery: Powered by Inclusion,” reflects the importance of ensuring that people with disabilities have full access to employment and community involvement during the national recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. This NDEAM 2021 YouTube video is a celebration of workers with disabilities. It talks about ways to make inclusive- and disability-friendly workplaces. Learn about workplace accommodations and other supports to help with starting a job or returning to work after the pandemic.

Advisory Committee Update

In August, the Sherlock Center welcomed Vaibavi Gopal as a new member of the Sentinels Advisory Committee. Vibes was also recently selected for a 2021 - 2022 traineeship. As a trainee, Vibes will participate in internships, seminars and help with Sherlock Center projects.

Meet Vaibavi Gopal!

"My name is Vaibavi Gopal, Vibes for short. I am a parent of an autistic child and got introduced to the world of disabilities through him. I’m passionate about learning all I can about this field, in a practical, on the ground kind of way. I’m looking forward to contributing in refining the existing systems of support in any way I can. I am immensely happy to be part of the Sherlock Sentinels. Looking forward to learning and growing as part of the team!!"

The Sherlock Center is seeking advisory committee members. If you or someone you know would like to become a member, please contact Conor O'Brien, Sentinels Facilitator, by email at [email protected] or leave a message at (401) 456-2763.

Sentinels Mailing List

If you or someone you know is interested in keeping in touch with the Sherlock Sentinels, please join our electronic mailing list. Mailing list members will receive our newsletter, announcements, and event invitations.

Join Our Mailing List

Stay Connected!

www.sherlockcenter.org