MDOD Newsletter                                                                           September 2019
Summer of Celebrations!

MDOD honored the 29th anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) by sharing all the ways summer fun has become more accessible thanks to the ADA.  Our campaign, #AccessibleSummer, highlighted many ways recreation and leisure activities have become more accessible and welcoming to people with disabilities. There were several events held marking the anniversary.

Secretary Beatty visited the Mid-Atlantic ADA Center on July 26th, presenting the Governor's Proclamation honoring the 29th anniversary.  To connect with the Mid-Atlantic ADA Center, CLICK HERE.
Sec Beatty stands with Mid Atlantic Director Karen Goss as they hold Governor_s Proclamation.

Chesapeake Bayhawks saluted the ADA at their game against the NY Lizards in Annapolis.  Secretary Beatty and Deputy Assistant Secretary John Brennan were recognized during the game on the Jumbotron! 
Sec Beatty and Dep Asst Sec Brennan are on Jumbotron holding Governor_s Proclamation.  They are surrounded by 4 local team mascots.

MD Technology Assistance Program (MDTAP) held an Open House and Resource Fair as well as an Accessible Gaming Night during ADA Celebration Week!  Both events highlighted how AT can change lives!    MDTAP can help connect you with AT solutions, CLICK HERE.
Many people at resource tables along the perimeter of room.  Tables have brochures and devices for demo. Two young people play XBox_ one with adaptive controller.
Missed out on the MDTAP Open House?  No worries, we've got you covered!  

Join us for the MDTAP OPEN HOUSE on September 11th!  
3pm-5pm @ MDTAP
Workforce Technology Center, Rm T17
2301 Argonne Drive, Baltimore MD 21218

Tour our lending library, check out new AT devices, and meet our AT staff! We'll also offer a table of free AT goodies! You don't want to miss this chance to explore all that MDTAP has to offer.


Secretary Beatty joins the First Lady at Worcester Developmental Center
The First Lady_ Senator Carozza and Sec Beatty stand with two staff members outside of building.
Secretary Carol Beatty joined Maryland's First Lady, Yumi Hogan, and MD Senator Mary Carozza on a visit to the Worcester County Developmental Center (WCDC) in August.  WCDC is a non-profit providing  opportunities for meaningful employment and independent living for adults with intellectual disabilities.   


The First Lady welcomes South Korean Delegation
The First Lady and Sec Beatty stand iwth large group on stairs in Government House.

A group of disability advocates and professionals from South Korea came to Maryland to learn more about Person Centered Thinking and Planning with Michael Smull during a week-long seminar.  Their trip ended in Annapolis with a tour of Government House and chance to meet with First Lady Hogan.  

Ethan Saylor Alliance Introduces New Curriculum
Patti Saylor stands at podium with screen behind her with pictures of her son. 
The Ethan Saylor Alliance gathered law enforcement agencies and advocates to discuss the release of a new curriculum to train law enforcement officers and first responders  on specific needs of those with developmental and intellectual disabilities.  Patti Saylor, mother of Ethan, opened the day by telling Ethan's story and stressing the importance of this work.  
 
The Ethan Saylor Alliance committee honored Percy Alston, Prince George Community College and our own Jennifer Eastman, Community Living Policy Director, with Governor's Citations for their work with the Alliance and outstanding efforts to improve the lives and safety of the entire community.  For more information on the Alliance, CLICK HERE.  

Project SEARCH Statewide Conference
Sec Beatty stands with 5 organizers of conference next to sign.
 
The new school year kicks off in Maryland with 14 Project SEARCH sites across the state.  The sites gathered a few weeks ago at a state-wide conference to share best practices and learn from Project SEARCH co-founder, Susie Rutkowski.  Secretary Beatty gave opening remarks at the conference.  To learn more about Project SEARCH, CLICK HERE.