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Hosted by the Institute for Human Development (IHD) at Northern Arizona University, Amplifying Voices of Disability<\/a> is a virtual day of learning focusing on timely, hot-button issues from the point of view of those with lived experience of disability. Topics include parenting with disabilities, assigning value to the unique skills and resilience gained from navigating life with a disability, moving toward disability justice as the ultimate goal of inclusion, improving employment readiness training for individuals with disabilities, and the differences between guide dogs and emotional support animals.<\/p>\n The goal of Amplifying Voices of Disability is to change perceptions and improve understanding of the lived experiences of individuals with disabilities by providing a platform for thought-provoking discussions.<\/p>\n This year\u2019s presenters include Becky Davidson,<\/strong> a specialist on the topics of service dogs and the rights of service dog handlers; Tanner Gers,<\/strong> managing director of AccessAbility Officer, <\/em>who is on a mission to make the disabled unemployment rate equal to the that of the general U.S. unemployment rate; Karen Hughes<\/strong>, a dedicated advocate for individuals with blindness and low vision; Matthew Shapiro, <\/strong>a disability consultant, public speaker, lobbyist, and founder of 6 Wheels Consulting<\/em>; Dr.<\/strong> Arielle Silverman, <\/strong>disabled activist and research director for the American Foundation for the Blind with a passion for improving public understanding of life with disabilities; and Jason Snead<\/strong>, Arizona Developmental Disabilities Planning Council research and communication specialist.<\/p>\n Also presenting are IHD\u2019s Assistant Director of Community Programs Dr. Sara Clancey <\/strong>and a panel of highly accomplished Arizona-based self-advocates, including Amber Hansen<\/strong>, Krista Howard<\/strong>, Sharon Malone,<\/strong> and Jordan Moon, <\/strong>who will discuss their lived experience parenting with disabilities.<\/p>\n For those who are interested, Northern Arizona University is offering up to six continuing education credit hours to participants!<\/p>\n This virtual day of learning will take place on Zoom between 9:00am and 4:30pm (Arizona time) on February 27, 2025. The cost is $79 for those who register by February 1, and $99 after. Please click here to learn more and register<\/a>. We hope to see you there!<\/p>\n\n