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Maryland Department of Disabilities
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Newsletter                                                                                      June, 2017
man in red cross vest pushes elderly woman in wheelchair in disaster shelter with cots in background
Emergency Preparedness Toolkit Released

The Department of Disabilities, working with local jurisdictions and fellow State agencies, has released a comprehensive emergency manager's toolkit which prioritizes planning for the needs of people with disabilities during preparedness, response, and recovery from a disaster or other emergency.  Planning for People with Disabilities and Others with Access and Functional Needs Toolkit was almost a two year process, but it is receiving national attention as a best practice for incorporating various support needs into one coordinated strategy. 

The project team included subject matter experts from all phases of local and state emergency management including the Maryland Emergency Management Agency; the Maryland Emergency Response System; the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security; and the Prince George's County Office of Emergency Management.

Maryland Department of Disabilities Director of Emergency Preparedness, Cecilia Warren, commented on the project by stating, " I was impressed with the level of interest we received not only from local emergency managers, but also from other states and federal agencies, as well. We are proud to share a body of knowledge that provides tools and materials for emergency managers to use when planning for people with disabilities. The toolkit emphasizes inclusive planning strategies and considerations so that all Marylanders are supported during a crisis situation."

Check out the online version at the below link! 
Toolkit LINK
MDOD: Changing Maryland for the Better
 
Description at link
The Maryland Department of Disabilities (MDOD) is charged with coordinating and improving the delivery of services to individuals with disabilities in the state of Maryland.  By working collaboratively with all State government agencies, MDOD provides advocacy and guidance to ensure that State entities deliver services in the most integrated settings possible, develop consistent policies affecting those with disabilities, and consider the diverse needs of all when making decisions which impact Marylanders.  Under the leadership of Governor Hogan, this focus is one which consistently has an eye to economic growth through strengthening of a diverse workforce and provision of the efficient and effective supports necessary for full participation in our state's economy. 

 

Sounds great, you say? But HOW is MDOD changing Maryland for the better?  MDOD is one of the smallest cabinet level departments in Maryland and we are living Governor Hogan's focus every day by ensuring we are focused, efficient, and innovative in our approach.  With thirty-five full time staff, our department is committed to changing Maryland for the better.  Check out the full infographic at the below link!

 

President Bush signing ADA into law as advocates and lawmakers look on
27th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act History Tour

In celebration of the 27th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Maryland Department of Disabilities will host a traveling disAbility History Tour throughout Maryland during July and August of 2017.

Advocacy: A History of People Speaking Up for Themselves will be on loan from the Museum of disAbility History. This five panel display traces the advocacy movement from early educational facilities to the development of organizations established for and by individuals with disabilities. This includes the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Join us at the Lowe House Office Building in Annapolis on August 4th for a reception to kick off the tour.  Registration will be available for the reception by July 7th.  In addition to viewing the display during the reception, the Maryland Department of Disabilities is proud to announce an opportunity to view the exhibit in a variety of locations throughout the summer. See the list of venues and dates below.  Registration is not required to view the display at these locations.  Call the facility for hours they are open to the public.
 
Miller Senate Office Building -Second Floor 
Anne Arundel County                 
11 Bladen Street, Annapolis, MD 21401
July 24th- July 27th
Baltimore City                                                      
3601 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21224
July 31st-August 2nd
Lowe House Office Building
Anne Arundel County
6 Bladen Street, Annapolis, MD 21401
August 4th
Washington County
100 South Potomac Street, Hagerstown MD
August 8th-August 12th
Charles County
50 Village Street, Waldorf, MD 20602
August 15th-August 19th
Kent County
408 High Street,Chestertown, MD 21620
August 22nd-August 26th
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