MetroWest Center for Independent Living did not make this film, and it is 41 minutes long. Sandy’s story is more than a story of a person with disabilities living independently. Her story is one of amazing accomplishments while beating back barriers and experiencing all the messiness of life. Thank you to Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council …
Dan Greany has lived through changes brought by the ADA. He remembers when there was no PCA program in western Massachusetts, and he was unsure how he could survive on his own with only 23 hours/week of Medicare home health care. Mass Rehabilitation Commission added to that while he was in college, but he still …
“July 26th is my 4th of July!” As an early proponent of the Independent Living movement, Paul Spooner was a strong voice, especially for Personal Care attendants. Paul was born with a genetic muscular atrophy disability that wasn’t evident until he was school-aged. He was sent home to live with his grandparents where his diagnosis …
Civil Rights Movement and Disability Rights – Paul Spooner Read More »
As executive director of STAVROS, the independent living center in Amherst and Springfield, Jim has played an important role in the independence of thousands of people. He describes his job as the “janitor” of the center – allowing his staff to be free of bureaucratic worries so they can be more effective. He is most …
Perspective of an Executive Director – Jim Kruideneir Read More »
Karen Schneiderman describes her growth as she learned about the wide range of disabilities, the commonalities of wanting to stay independent, and her activism. She was not allowed to attend public schools, so attended a special school. After getting degrees at Boston University and Northeastern College as well as a doctorate at another school, she …
Michael speaks about his journey since his injury in 1976. He has been a key member of the Boston Center for Independent Living since 1981. He describes his appreciation of the Independent Living and Disability Rights movements. His advocacy contributes to improved access to transportation, housing, jobs and services.
