Weekly Edition - 1.7.25

🔔 Ring in 2025 with news that matters! From Nevada's vital behavioral health reforms to touching NFL coach connections, this week brings meaningful changes and inspiring moments that could directly impact your family's journey.

Stronger Together: Help others stay informed by sharing this newsletter. Forward this email or share our newsletter (copy URL here).

The Big Idea

This week’s featured story: a closer look at developments making waves in the I/DD community

🏜️ The Justice Department has secured a landmark settlement with Nevada that promises to transform how the state supports children with behavioral health disabilities. This agreement directly addresses violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Olmstead decision, where Nevada had been unnecessarily placing children in institutional settings rather than supporting them in their communities.

At the heart of this settlement lies a comprehensive plan to overhaul Nevada's behavioral health services. The state has committed to implementing crucial changes, including early screening and assessment protocols, expanded home-based services, and improved coordination of care. These services will encompass essential supports such as wraparound facilitation, mobile crisis intervention, respite care, and both individual and family therapy. Perhaps most importantly, families will gain access to peer support systems, creating a network of understanding and shared experiences.

The settlement's implications extend far beyond Nevada's borders. Coming on the heels of similar agreements with Maine and court victories in Florida, this case represents a growing momentum toward community-based care across the nation. The Justice Department's Civil Rights Division has shown increasing focus on protecting children with disabilities, as evidenced by their recent findings in Alaska and continued enforcement of the Olmstead decision.

This agreement isn't just about policy changes – it's about transforming lives. Children who might have previously faced separation from their families will now have the opportunity to receive care while remaining in their homes, attending their schools, and maintaining their community connections.

Moments That Matter

Celebrating the everyday victories, breakthrough achievements, and inspiring individuals

🏈 Imagine having the personal email address of an NFL head coach - one who actually writes back. For David Price, a Ravens superfan with cerebral palsy, this isn't just a dream. Every week, he crafts thoughtful messages to Coach John Harbaugh, analyzing games, sharing life stories, and building a friendship that defies expectations.

What makes this connection truly remarkable isn't just the open line to Baltimore's top coach - it's how the entire Ravens organization has embraced David and his best friend Corey Ward, who also has cerebral palsy. In a world where disability often means being overlooked, these two fans have found a place where their passion and perspectives are genuinely valued. "They treat Corey and David as the adults that they are," David's mother shares, her voice filled with appreciation.

This isn't your typical feel-good sports story. It's a masterclass in what real inclusion looks like. When David emails his game critiques (yes, he once told Harbaugh to "Get Lamar signed" - and they did), he's treated as a knowledgeable fan first, disability second. When life gets tough, like when David's aunt was battling brain cancer, Harbaugh doesn't just send quick well-wishes - he writes long, heartfelt prayers.

Picture how different our communities could be if more organizations followed the Ravens' playbook. No special treatment, no patronizing gestures - just genuine respect, real relationships, and the understanding that everyone has something valuable to contribute.

If you would like to read more about this inspiring friendship, check out the original article.

State Spotlight

Local developments that matter: how local policies and changes impact your community

✒️ Governor Hochul's recent signature brought New York's Down syndrome support program into law, marking a meaningful shift for families receiving a diagnosis. The Down Syndrome Diagnosis Awareness Program ensures healthcare providers will now share detailed information about development paths, support networks, and intervention options with parents. This bipartisan success story transforms how families receive and process this significant news, replacing clinical facts with comprehensive, practical guidance. The program's rollout through the New York State Department of Health will soon bring these resources to families across the state.

🖼️ Families affected by autism now have a new cultural destination. The Virginia Museum of History and Culture, located in Richmond, Virginia, has earned its autism-friendly community designation. Implementing comprehensive sensory supports and staff training to ensure every visitor can experience history at their own pace. For parents like Ida Barksdale, who has two children on the spectrum, this designation means more than just accessibility—it represents freedom from extensive pre-visit research and anxiety. Whether exploring their current LEGO exhibition or upcoming American Revolution showcase, families can now focus on making memories rather than managing sensory challenges. Learn how the museum is making history accessible for all families in the original article.

Navigating Your Journey: A Guide to Accessible Travel Resources 

Planning travel with disabilities requires careful consideration of accessibility needs, transportation options, and accommodations - but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. Whether you're looking at air travel, road trips, train journeys, each mode presents unique opportunities and challenges for families in the I/DD community. From TSA's disability resources to accessible hotel databases and specialized travel agencies that understand your needs, there are more tools than ever to help make your journey smoother. We've curated essential links and expert advice to help you navigate the planning process and ensure your rights are protected. 

1. Navigating air travel with a disability can seem overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it doesn't have to be. This comprehensive guide from Upgraded Points walks you through everything from booking considerations to navigating airports, helping ensure a smoother, more accessible journey. See details.

   • Note: This guide may be updated to reflect recent U.S. Department of Transportation changes that enhance protections for air travelers with disabilities. For the latest regulations, see details. 

2. Planning a train trip can be a relaxing alternative for travelers with disabilities, but it’s important to know how to access the right accommodations. Amtrak’s Accessible Travel Services page walks you through booking tips, assistance options, and more so you can enjoy a comfortable and worry-free journey by rail. See details.

3. Bus travel can be a budget-friendly and convenient option for travelers with disabilities, especially if you know what services are available. Greyhound’s dedicated page walks you through everything from wheelchair accessibility to service animal policies, helping to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for all. See details.

If you don’t want to handle every detail of your trip on your own and would prefer some assistance, AccessibleGo has you covered. Their platform helps travelers with disabilities find and compare accessible hotels, attractions, and more, so you can explore the world with confidence. Check them out.

Got thoughts? We’d love to hear from you at [email protected]