The Law of the Land in the 6th Circuit Makes Education Better for All

On August 20, 2018, parents, who are COPAA members, received an overwhelming victory in a swiftly delivered opinion from the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision in L.H. v. Hamilton Cty. Dept. of Educ., regarding their child’s right to be educated in his least restrictive environment (LRE), a decision which the school district’s counsel referred to at oral argument as “arguably the most important special education case heard by the Sixth Circuit in the past […]

Webinar: Human Trafficking and Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

Wednesday, September 5, 2018, 1:00-2:30 p.m. ET Register for the event This webinar will highlight emerging trends, case studies, and best practices for providing supportive and comprehensive services for individuals with disabilities who are at risk or currently experiencing human trafficking. Discussion Topics Bias, stigmas, and risk factors that may lead to victimization Perspectives from researchers, service providers, and leaders to understand contributing factors to susceptibility to trafficking and discuss prevention Promising practices and service […]

Smithsonian Highlights Special Olympics History and Athletes

“Special Olympics at 50” Celebrates Diversity and Inclusion in Sports The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History will open “Special Olympics at 50” July 10, a new display showcasing 50 years of Special Olympics. Founded at a time when people with intellectual disabilities (ID) were often institutionalized or hidden away, Special Olympics changes attitudes about the abilities and talents of children and adults with ID—giving them the chance to train their bodies, build confidence, meet […]

66 Autistic Children Treated to Back-to-School Shoes by Grant from the Thomas Davis Foundation

Children at Springbrook Autism Behavioral Health receive free shoes for Back to School Thomas Davis Defending Dreams Foundation provides $4,300 Back-to-School shopping spree for children in residential autism treatment program. GREENVILLE, S.C – More than 60 children in Springbrook Autism Behavioral Health’s residential treatment program were treated to a shopping spree to pick out shoes for back to school, thanks to a $4,300 donation from the Thomas Davis Defending Dreams Foundation. “We were so touched […]

Parental Perspectives on Down Syndrome Research Webinar – July 31 – NTG notice

In our webinar series this year, participants have heard from researchers and me about the exciting research that is getting closer to clinical trials and the potential outcomes these promising interventions could have on individuals with Down syndrome. Today, I invite you to register for our July 31st webinar to hear about the priorities, expectations and concerns for Down syndrome research that families have. Parental Perspectives on Down Syndrome Research and 5 ways to families can […]