Annual Plated Luncheon Keynote: Magic of IL
Keynote Overview:
While pulling this keynote together, we spoke with many people new and old around the community trying to figure out what the Magic of IL is. What we came up with is that we have, within our community, wisdom that we can share with one another in a way that is informational and not inspirational. The magic is also that we share a common philosophy, culture, and a responsibility to build each other up as a larger movement. Meanwhile, each IL Organization has a uniqueness because we are consumer driven and respond to the needs of our specific communities. So in order to keep the magic alive, we must both appreciate the unique and amazing work that each one of us are doing, while sharing with one another the wisdom we have learned along the way while building these programs out. Although this panel won’t represent everyone doing truly magical work, it is a way to kick off a larger conversation.
Following the keynote, we want each of you to participate in our #MagicofIL Facebook conversation where we want you to post something about a program, event, or advocacy initiative you are doing in your community that you are proud of, and is IL magic. Be sure to tag APRIL and #MagicofIL. With Community, We are Stronger!
Additional Session Materials:
- Accessible PDF Version of the PowerPoint Presentation from Today's Session
- N.I.N.J.A. Program: https://usilc.org/youth-programs/ninja/
- Accessible PDF version of the SMILE Promo
- Accessible PDF version of the Driving For Success VAIL Presentation (video not included in PDF version)
About your Panelists:
Humberto "Bert" Rios
Bert Rios is the Interim Executive Director at SMILE, Services Maximizing Independent Living and Empowerment in Yuma, AZ.
Website: http://smile-az.org
Kirt Toombs
Kirt is the EOCIL Executive Director (Eastern Oregon Center for Independent Living) in Ontario, Oregon
Website: EOCIL
Dr. Lidia Fonseca
Lidia is the Director of Programs at VAIL in McAllen, TX
Website: www.vailrgv.org
Andrea "Andy" Barlow
Andrea “Andy” Barlow has been involved in the disability community since just after high school. She has worked throughout her life to overcome her own limitations and is passionate about helping others to recognize and achieve their potential. She has served in a number of positions on various youth disability committees in Utah. She currently serves as the Youth Leadership Committee (YLC) Chairman and is the YLC Representative for the Utah Statewide Independent Living Council (USILC). Andy is passionate about advocating for the youth disability community and enjoys participating in training and conferences, and especially enjoys networking with people and organizations devoted to the disability community. She also dedicates much of her time to volunteering as a classroom aide in local elementary schools where she uses her personal life experiences to connect with youth in grades K-3.
Website: https://usilc.org/