First In Families of North Carolina

First In Families is excited to be a part of the Disability Pride Parade in Durham, once again!

This July 26th marks the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) being signed into law. Each July, Disability Pride Month is dedicated to raising awareness, visibility, and acceptance of people with disabilities. It is an opportunity for disabled people and their allies to come together to celebrate our achievements and resolve to continue working to realize the promise of the ADA and a more just, inclusive society where everyone can thrive. Join DRNC Saturday, July 27, at 5PM at the Triangle’s second disability pride parade! For more information:
https://disabilityrightsnc.org/event/disability-pride-parade/

Thank you NC leader, worker, family person, friend and mentor to many, Bryan Dooley, for speaking at the White House in Observance of the 25th Anniversary of the Olmstead Ruling!! As Chair of the NCDDC and Co-chair of the OPSA, you make us proud back home, and we appreciate all you do here, there and everywhere. See Bryan's remarks at 1:07:58 on the video below. THANK YOU BRYAN!

White House Olmstead 25th Anniversary Observance On Tuesday, 6/18 at 1:45 PM ET, the White House Office of Public Engagement will host disability advocates from around the country to celebrate the 25th anni...

FIFNC CONNECT2024! happened yesterday, a successful community-building meeting that will be a model we'll repeat. It was chock full of personal testimonies by folks assisted, community agency members, our Chapter Leadership Team members (people with lived experience), introductions to newcomers considering joining their local CLT, and stories/info from our wonderful staff and Board. Our 13 Chapter teams feel invigorated and growing!

First In Families of North Carolina offices will be closed on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 in observance of Juneteenth.

First In Families of North Carolina invites you to attend:

I/DD Legislative Caucus May 14th 12:00 to 2:00 Auditorium of Legislative Building

An Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Legislative Caucus Listening Session will be held on May 14th from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm. It will be in the Auditorium of the 3rd Floor of the Legislative Building at 16 West Jones Street, Raleigh, North Carolina. Speaker slots are being filled, but North Carolina individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and family members can attend. You can register to attend here. Attendees should try to schedule a visit with Legislators before and after the event. You can find your Legislators on the General Assembly website by entering your address and clicking NC Senator and NC House. You can reach out to the Legislative Assistant to request a meeting with your Legislators on that day by clicking on the Legislative Assistant’s name.

We hope you can attend! There will be 2- minute remarks by 20 ore more self advocates, family members, and allies.

There will be a Press Conference following the event.

This is a great way to learn more about Tailored Plans. There are 2 sessions, please register for the one that works best for you. https://thearcofnc.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ZE_2-zdFRGuAtiFGPrJGrA #/registration

Press Release: Agreement in Samantha R. et al. vs. NCDHHS and the State of North Carolina

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2024

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and Disability Rights North Carolina (DRNC) today jointly announce an agreement in the Samantha R. et al. vs. NCDHHS and the State of North Carolina litigation. This development signifies the commitment of both organizations to ensure all North Carolinians with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) have the resources they need to live healthy, independent lives in communities of their choosing.

For full details go to: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/news/press-releases/2024/04/10/agreement-samantha-r-et-al-vs-ncdhhs-and-state-north-carolina.

Agreement in Samantha R. et al. vs. NCDHHS and the State of North Carolina PRESS RELEASE — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and Disability Rights North Carolina (DRNC) today jointly announce an agreement in the Samantha R. et al. vs. NCDHHS and the State of North Carolina litigation. This development signifies the commitment of both org...

First In Families Celebrates Developmental Disability Awareness! North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has proclaimed March Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. This marks the 37th anniversary of the Congressional designation of National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and acknowledges the nearly 200,000 people living in North Carolina who have intellectual and other developmental disabilities (I/DD). The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities are dedicated to coming together to address societal barriers so individuals can reach their full potential and be fully included in their communities.

“We are committed to helping people in North Carolina live healthy, independent lives in their communities,” said NCDHHS Director of the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services, Kelly Crosbie. “People with developmental disabilities and advocates are at the center of our work to ensure everyone has access to health care and community-based services so they can live and thrive in the setting that is the best fit for them.”

People with I/DD can and do live and work independently and productively throughout the state. NCCDD and NCDHHS work tirelessly to ensure people with I/DD have the opportunity to access competitive integrated employment, education, housing, health care and civic engagement.

Today is WORLD DOWN SYNDROME DAY!!! A great time to register for the NC Down Syndrome Conference.

Looking to put your loved ones' health and happiness first? Join us at the North Carolina Down Syndrome Conference for sessions tailored just for you!

Here's a glimpse of what's in store:

- Finding a Dental Home: Get insider tips from a dental pro and experienced parent on promoting good oral health for your child with Down syndrome.

- At-Home Treatments for Common Health Conditions: Keynote speaker, Brian Chicoine, MD, will guide you through simple yet effective treatments for common health issues, empowering you to manage your loved one's well-being at home.

- Supporting People with Down Syndrome in Living a Healthy Lifestyle: Learn why a healthy lifestyle matters and discover practical ways to support your loved one in leading their best life.

- Sleep Disturbances in Individuals with Down Syndrome: Explore sleep challenges and find solutions to ensure your loved one gets the rest they need for a bright day ahead.

Let's champion the well-being of our loved ones with Down syndrome together. See you at the conference: https://www.ncdsalliance.org/conference/

Don’t forget today is the Presidential Primary Election! As a reminder, Photo ID will be required to vote in the upcoming elections. https://www.ncsbe.gov/voting/voter-id
Find out where to vote and more by calling Disability Rights NC at 888-WEVOTE2
For more information, visit https://www.ncsbe.gov/ and https://safevoternc.org/

Come hang out with Youth Lead NC!
https://www.youthleadnc.org/

Join us on March 7, 2024 at 7 PM for a casual hang out on Zoom! No agenda planned, this is just an opportunity to talk about whatever comes up and meet some new people.

Please share with any young people with disabilities 30 and younger! The Zoom information is below. Please RSVP at [email protected] as soon as possible if you haven't done so already! Captioning and requested accommodations will be provided.

Zoom information:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9163000318?pwd=SGtaTGVNV0lOcG1Zd3BiaHZ1b29LUT09
Meeting ID: 916 300 0318
Passcode: Youthrock
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Black History Month is officially celebrated in the U.S every year. During the month of February, we celebrate the achievements of Black leaders throughout history, and while many of these leaders also had a disability, that aspect is often minimized or overlooked.

Disability advocacy is an integral part of Black history, shaping world history. Let’s recognize some remarkable Black leaders with lived experience who made significant contributions:

Harriet Tubman: An abolitionist who led enslaved Black people to freedom through underground passageways. Tubman had epileptic seizures since she was 12, yet her resilience and courage remain an inspiration.

Thomas Wiggins: A blind pianist and composer celebrated for being the first Black person to perform at the White House. Acknowledging his disability enriches the history of all musicians which disabilities.

Fannie Lou Hamer: A leader in the Civil Rights Movement and vice-chair of the Freedom Democratic Party. She had polio and left an indelible mark for Black women and disability rights in the U.S.

Johnnie Lacy: Co-founder of the Berkeley Center for Independent Living, she served on Hayward’s Commission on Personnel and Affirmative Action. Lacy, who also had polio, championed rights for Black women and individuals with disabilities.

Brad Lomax: A member of the Black Panther Party who had multiple sclerosis and used a wheelchair. He participated in the historic 504 Sit-ins, advocating for disability rights.

Let us honor the resilience, talents, and achievements of Black Americans with disabilities during this important month and beyond. 🌟🙌

ALP NCCDD Recruitment Flyer

The Ability Leadership Program - North Carolina (ALP-NC) is a comprehensive leadership development program designed to educate and empower disability rights advocates. Through engaging discussions and practical activities, ALP-NC emphasizes the importance of amplifying the perspectives and experiences of individuals with disabilities. As a result, this initiative advances collaborative leadership to build a more inclusive and accessible world with the disability community.

Who can be an ALP-NC participant?
• Adults who have an intellectual and/or developmental disability
• Family members or caregivers of persons with an intellectual or developmental disability
• Highly motivated and enthusiastic people who want to work for systems change and improve the lives of North Carolinians with intellectual and developmental

Cohort 1 2024 will meet monthly on Fridays from 10 am-2 pm. These are online Zoom meetings; we will have multiple breaks during each session. Meeting Dates: April 5, May 3, June 7, July 12

Applications for ALP-NC are due by 5pm on Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Congratulations to our Cumberland First In Families Chapter which was honored with the Excellence In Community Service Award at the The Mo You Know Martin Luther King Day Celebration of Dreams in Fayetteville this past Saturday.

FIFNC is made up 13 Chapters through the state, each led by people with disabilities and thier family members and advised by committed community members. These regional, grass roots, Chapter Leadership Teams work together to meet the unique needs of thier communities. If you are interested in learning more about getting involved with a FIF Chapter in your area visit fifnc.org or email [email protected] for more information.

In honor and observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, all First In Families of North Carolina offices will be closed on Monday, January 15, 2024.

Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year! 🌟

As the year draws to a close, First In Families extends our warmest wishes for a peaceful and happy holiday season. We hope your season is filled with happiness and quality time with loved ones.

Announcing "Bid For Better": A GivingTuesday Nonprofit Auction!
Join us for a spectacular event brought to you by The Triangle Nonprofit & Volunteer Leadership — a unique blend of philanthropy and fun! What exactly is "Bid For Better"? It's an exciting new event to support local nonprofits while indulging in the thrill of bidding on one-of-a-kind items. Kickstart your holiday shopping with us!

What to Expect:
Curated items from 20+ Triangle-connected nonprofits.
Unparalleled items, including tickets to Triangle-based performances, sporting events, artworks from local talents, unforgettable experiences, and even the chance to get a CAR from Wheels4Hope!

Save the Date: GivingTuesday
Join us on GivingTuesday, November 28th, the nationwide celebration of giving back and supporting nonprofits. Your presence at this event directly contributes to making a positive impact in our communities.

Why Attend?
It's not just an auction; it's a unique opportunity to find distinctive holiday gifts that truly matter.

Every ticket and item sale contributes 100% directly to our nonprofit partners, supporting their diverse missions and essential programs...and an exclusive chance to get ahead on your holiday shopping, all while championing the causes of our remarkable nonprofits.

GREAT gifts for a GOOD Cause!
To learn more: https://thevolunteercenter.org/auction/
A&P Smith Community Development Center Boys & Girls Clubs of Durham and Orange CountiesCommunities In Schools of Durham Digital Durham- Dig Durm The Durham Art GuildDurham Parks Foundation Echo Nc First In Families of North Carolina Kramden Institute LEAP- Latino Educational Achievement Partnership LGBTQ Center of the Cape Fear Coast Open Table Ministry, Inc. Piedmont Wildlife Center Student Action with Farmworkers Bull City Woodshop The Disability Awareness Council of Orange County NC Triangle Aphasia Project Unlimited Triangle Literacy Council Triangle Nonprofit & Volunteer Leadership Center Triangle Youth Ballet Wheels4Hope

FIFNC is thrilled to be part of the “Bid for Better” nonprofit auction. Come join us on and kick off your holiday shopping by giving back! Triangle Nonprofit & Volunteer Leadership Center

Announcing "Bid For Better": A GivingTuesday Nonprofit Auction!
Join us for a spectacular event brought to you by The Triangle Nonprofit & Volunteer Leadership — a unique blend of philanthropy and fun! What exactly is "Bid For Better"? It's an exciting new event to support local nonprofits while indulging in the thrill of bidding on one-of-a-kind items. Kickstart your holiday shopping with us!

What to Expect:
Curated items from 20+ Triangle-connected nonprofits.
Unparalleled items, including tickets to Triangle-based performances, sporting events, artworks from local talents, unforgettable experiences, and even the chance to get a CAR from Wheels4Hope!

Save the Date: GivingTuesday
Join us on GivingTuesday, November 28th, the nationwide celebration of giving back and supporting nonprofits. Your presence at this event directly contributes to making a positive impact in our communities.

Why Attend?
It's not just an auction; it's a unique opportunity to find distinctive holiday gifts that truly matter.

Every ticket and item sale contributes 100% directly to our nonprofit partners, supporting their diverse missions and essential programs...and an exclusive chance to get ahead on your holiday shopping, all while championing the causes of our remarkable nonprofits.

GREAT gifts for a GOOD Cause!
To learn more: https://thevolunteercenter.org/auction/
A&P Smith Community Development Center Boys & Girls Clubs of Durham and Orange CountiesCommunities In Schools of Durham Digital Durham- Dig Durm The Durham Art GuildDurham Parks Foundation Echo Nc First In Families of North Carolina Kramden Institute LEAP- Latino Educational Achievement Partnership LGBTQ Center of the Cape Fear Coast Open Table Ministry, Inc. Piedmont Wildlife Center Student Action with Farmworkers Bull City Woodshop The Disability Awareness Council of Orange County NC Triangle Aphasia Project Unlimited Triangle Literacy Council Triangle Nonprofit & Volunteer Leadership Center Triangle Youth Ballet Wheels4Hope

Happy Thanksgiving from First In Families of North Carolina! We are thankful for YOU!
Our offices will be closed on Thursday, November 23 & Friday, November 24!

First In Families of North Carolina offices will be closed on Friday, November 10th in observance of Veterans Day.

National Family Caregivers Month – celebrated each November -- is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country.

Celebrating Family Caregivers enables all of us to:
Raise awareness of family caregiver issues
Celebrate the efforts of family caregivers
Educate family caregivers about self-identification
Increase support for family caregivers
Reduce feelings of isolation

In the collaborative spirit of seeking improvements to special education, we are sharing this request for survey participation. If you are a parent of a child with an IEP, please take a few minutes to complete the survey by clicking on the link below. https://appstate.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5hlcyqq8sjGljOC

Quiet Days | North Carolina Zoo On Quiet Days at the North Carolina Zoo, we offer a more sensory-friendly experience and invite all that are looking to visit the Zoo on a less crowded day.

Exciting news – the DHHS Competitive Integrated Employment Initiative will now be known as Inclusion Works!

This highlights the DHHS priority of creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. North Carolina is stronger when everyone is included in our workplace and communities!

Learn more here: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/about/department-initiatives/inclusion-works