Maui Disability Alliance Holds Legislative Forum

By Wendy Osher

Para-Olympian Beth Arnoult demonstrates wheelchair tennis skills. File photo, County of Maui.

Residents of Maui who are disabled, or those who have loved ones who are disabled have an opportunity to meet with policy makers to share their experiences.

The Maui Disability Alliance will host its 16th Annual Legislative Forum from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 20th at the Velma McWayne Santos Community Center in Wailuku.

The event will include participation from more than 18 service agencies.  Elected and appointed officials will also be on hand for panel discussions focusing on employment, transportation, education, family support, health and housing.

Confirmed participants include State Senator Roz Baker, State Representatives Joe Souki and George Fontaine, County Council Vice-Chair Joe Pontanilla, and County Council Members Gladys Baisa, Robert Carroll and Michael Victorino.

Food and entertainment will be provided at the event.  Registration is not required.

Individuals with disabilities can request special access accommodations by calling the Maui Developmental Disabilities Council at 984-8218.

The Maui Disability Alliance was established to increase awareness, and to give voice to a broad range of issues facing individuals with disabilities.

The forum is sponsored by the Maui Disability Alliance which is made up of: the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Maui (ADRC); ARC of Maui; Best Buddies; Community Children’s Council of Maui; Easter Seals Hawaii; Hawaii Center for Independent Living; Hawaii Families as Allies; Ka Lima O Maui; the County Parks and Recreation Inclusion Program; La’akea Foundation; Lokelani Ohana; Maui Developmental Disabilities Committee; Maui Family Guidance Center; Mental Health America, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation; Nurse Finders; and Workforce Development / Worksource Maui.