March 20 , 2007 Press Release

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Institute on Disability Receives $5K from NH Bar Foundation to Train Leaders & Advocates

DURHAM, N.H. - The Institute on Disability (IOD) at the University of New Hampshire has received $5,000 from the New Hampshire Bar Foundation to support the IOD's New Hampshire Leadership Series. The Series, started in 1988, provides intensive training for individuals with disabilities and family members to effect change in their personal lives and their communities. The grant from the New Hampshire Bar Foundation supports the Leadership Series' culminating experience, the Legislative Session, which includes training in the legislative process and meetings at the State House with legislators. "Legislators have consistently reported that they learn as much or more during this session than they share with participants," says Mary Schuh, associate director of the IOD. Schuh adds that past Legislative Sessions have resulted in action from legislators on disability-related legislation. The New Hampshire Leadership Series serves families of people with disabilities and adults with disabilities from around the state, from rural parts of the North Country to Seacoast towns to urban centers. Through the Leadership Series, these individuals and their families are equipped with the skills and the support to participate in creating and enacting legislation that responds to issues of poverty, lack of education, health care, transportation, and unemployment, all of which affect people with disabilities disproportionately. The IOD's 2007 New Hampshire Leadership Series is supported by the New Hampshire Bar Foundation, Stanley M. and Thalia M. Brown Fund, and the Judge Richard E. Cooper Fund.

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The IOD advances policies and systems changes, promising practices, education and research that strengthen communities and ensure full access, equal opportunities, and participation for all persons.