Accessible Martial Arts Program

The Accessible Martial Arts Program is designed for people of all ages, both with and without disabilities, who want to learn and practice self-defense, stretching, exercise, and relaxation techniques.  In this demo session, instructors from EasterSeals will introduce participants to some basic blocks and strikes.

Presenters - Patrick Remy, James Thibeault, Patricia Bickford

Organization - EasterSeals

Creating a Meaningful Life Through Self-Direction

In these uncertain times we are faced with many challenges, but we also have many opportunities for growth.  In this workshop, the presenters will share how they used self-direction to create and maintain meaningful lives in the midst of a global pandemic.

Presenters - Beverly McGovern, Pamela Hickey, Jacob Courville, Jen Courville, Dania Rojas, and Ellen Kelleher

Organization - Department of Developmental Services (DDS)

Collette's Advice on Becoming Independent

“No one ever made a difference by being like everyone else.”  In this inspiring workshop, self-advocate Collette Divitto will share her story of how she started her own business and created her path to independence.

Presenters - Collette Divitto, Rosemary Alfredo

Organization - Collettey’s Cookies

Disability Inclusion in the Workforce and Community

Everyone wants to feel like they are being included in their community, but this is sometimes easier said than done.  In this presentation, self-advocates will share their insights on how employers and self-advocates can work together to create inclusive environments for everyone.

Presenters - Courtney Maynard, Katherine Sully, Colleen Cummings

Organization - LifeWorks Inc.

Healthy Self-Advocates Working with Health Professionals

Building and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be challenging, but you have the power to shape your own health!  In this multi-part presentation, self-advocates from MASS will discuss how to self-advocate in healthcare settings, from setting good healthcare goals to interacting at the doctor’s office.

Presenters - William Fahey, Daysiree Perez-Batista, Mindy Malas

Organization - Mass Advocates Standing Strong (MASS)

Ready, Set, Go...You Got the Job, Now What?

Starting a new job can be scary, whether you are just entering the workforce or are in transition.  In this workshop, self-advocates from MASS will share tips and strategies for what you can do to get the most out of your new job.

Presenters - Mindy Malas, Marie Hennessey, Justin Bernard

Organization - Mass Advocates Standing Strong (MASS)

Self-Advocacy: Changing the World

What is “self-advocacy?”  And what does it take to be a self-advocate?  In this presentation, two MASS board members will share their stories of how self-advocacy has made a difference in their lives and helped them to make a difference in their community.

Presenters - Fran Hladysz, Jillian Berube

Organization - Mass Advocates Standing Strong (MASS)

Self-Advocacy Fundraising

Have you ever wanted to learn how to raise money for a cause you care about?  In this presentation, self-advocates will share experiences and strategies for how to create successful and impactful fundraising campaigns and events.

Presenters - Caitlin Hadley, Valerie Lessa, Deb Long, Nora McShane, Janice Smith

Organization - Minute Man Arc

Strong Together: National Peer Support Network

The Peer Support Network (PSN) was created by and for people with disabilities who are also survivors of sexual violence. In this workshop, the presenters will provide short stories of their experiences, explain what the PSN is, why peer support is important, what survivors need and what the PSN can do.

NOTE: This workshop contains strong content - participant discretion is advised.

Presenters - Patty Quatieri, Kecia Weller, James Meadours

Organization - Peer Support Network (PSN)

#TeachDisabilityHistory

People with disabilities have been making an impact on historical events for longer than many people realize.  In this fun and interactive workshop, members of EasterSeals will explore important people and events that highlight significant accomplishments and milestones in disability history and how they affect our world today.

Presenters - Desi Forte, Austin Carr, Patrick Remy, Adam Tasha, Dominic Mondon-Poirier

Organization - EasterSeals