Articles from prior issues of The Advocate

September/October, 1997

National Disability Professionals Week
by Leslie Hendren, NDPW chair

ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF DISABILITY PROFESSIONALS WERE recognized across the nation during National Disability Professionals Week. Most of NADE’s chapters celebrated June 16 through 21 with efforts including refreshments, training, membership recruitment, awards, certification and proclamations. Chapter presidents and members utilized materials and ideas sent out by the committee. Regional committee members followed up with individual chapters to answer questions, issue reminders and help in any way necessary. These members include Judy Woodbeck, VT, Northeast Region; Ruann Kinnison, CO, Great Plains Region; Al Kamnick, IL, Great Lakes Region; Mike Fleming, AL, Southeast Region; Fran Michael, MD, Mid-Atlantic Region; and Leslie Hendren, TX, Southwest and Pacific Regions. Their efforts are greatly appreciated. Alabama combined a Red Lobster luncheon with quarterly meetings as well as providing donuts, coffee and orange juice for a reception. Connecticut provided bagels and coffee during a morning break. New Mexico had a fantastic buffet along with training. Chapters honored members who had earned NADE certification as well as those who received chapter awards. Some states gave away NADE memberships or paid part of the yearly dues. The Olympia, Washington chapter had presentations on the benefits of NADE membership. New Mexico reported proclamations from both the Governor and State Representative. Chapters also reported activities just for fun to build morale. Texas held a “Crazy Hat and Sock” contest providing the winner with 20 scratch off lottery tickets netting $52 in winnings. Connecticut used baby pictures of members for a contest. Both New Mexico and Connecticut reported their very first ever NDPW celebrations! The NDPW Committee will recognize the Chapter with the best celebration at the National Training Conference in Kentucky during the Awards Luncheon. Be sure, however, that all chapters can be proud of their professionalism and fraternity. My sincere appreciation to all who were involved in the 1997 celebration as well as to President Susan LaMorte for her confidence in my appointment.