“A wheelchair, alone, cannot keep men and women from accomplishing their heart’s desire, because the human spirit is capable of transcending life’s most debilitating tragedies; its power and potential cannot and should not be underestimated.” [1]
“Hearing these stories shows that these wheelchair users, despite their disabilities or conditions, were able to garner a level of success many dream about. These stories are truly inspirational and prove that anything you set your mind to is possible!” [2]
“As you can see, there are many great people throughout history who have experienced the trials and tribulations that life has thrown at them. The people outlined here are a reminder of the strength of the human spirit and encouragement to go after your goals, use your voice to share your story and inspire others, and know that no matter what limits your body may have, your heart and your mind are boundless.” [2]
“The field of adult education is rooted in social justice, equity, and inclusion. Adult learners with disabilities face significant challenges to inclusion in educational environments. To promote teaching practice that is inclusive for all learners, adult educators should be knowledgeable of teaching practices that reduce barriers for learners with disabilities.” [1]
“Inclusivity is about more than just meeting educational benchmarks or following procedures. It’s an important part of ensuring that all of your employees can learn effectively.” [2]
“Each learner has different learning abilities, comfort levels, and difficulties. This is true no matter whether you teach in person, online, or in a hybrid environment. The more inclusive you make your learning environment, the more easily learners will absorb the materials received, and the less bias will affect the classes.” [2]
“There is no one size fits all approach to determining the most effective accommodations for adult learners. To be most effective, adult educators should have some foundational information that describes different types of disabilities and understand that there are accommodations that they can provide for their learners (Grasgreen, 2013; Ingeno,2013). Numerous different approaches exist for providing inclusive and accessible learning environments for adult learners. Instructor facilitated academic accommodations are often suggested based on the individual disability and possible instructional aids.” [1]
How can you create an inclusive environment for individuals with disabilities?
1) Understand the barriers
“The first step to creating an inclusive environment is to identify and remove the barriers that may prevent individuals with disabilities from participating fully and effectively in the environment. Barriers can be physical, such as inaccessible buildings, equipment, or transportation; communication, such as unclear instructions, jargon, or lack of alternative formats; attitudinal, such as stereotypes, stigma, or low expectations; or systemic, such as policies, procedures, or practices that exclude or disadvantage certain groups. You can use various tools and methods, such as surveys, audits, feedback, or consultations, to assess the accessibility and inclusiveness of the environment and identify the areas that need improvement.” [3]
2) Don’t Assume What Is or Isn’t Possible
“People with disabilities are not a monolith. Even though individuals may share some similar experiences, needs, or challenges, they are highly diverse and represent a variety of cultures, skillsets, backgrounds, and may live with a physical, cognitive, or other type of disability that has varying effects on their daily life. And, of course, a person’s disability can affect them in a variety of ways that may not necessarily be obvious to the outside observer.” [4]
3) Ensuring physical access, usability, and safety
“Assure that activities, materials, and equipment are physically accessible to and usable by all students and that all potential student characteristics are addressed in safety considerations. Instructors should consider arranging instructional spaces to maximize inclusion and comfort, while also remaining mindful of student safety.” [5]
4) Fostering a Supportive Classroom Community
“Creating a supportive classroom community is at the heart of inclusive education. This involves nurturing an environment where students feel safe to express themselves and are encouraged to support their peers. Educators can facilitate this by establishing clear guidelines for respectful communication and behavior. Activities that promote team-building and empathy, such as group projects and peer mentoring, can be particularly effective. It’s also important to address any instances of bullying or exclusion promptly and effectively. Celebrating diverse cultures, abilities, and achievements helps in building a positive and inclusive classroom culture. Encouraging students to share their experiences and perspectives enriches the learning experience for the entire class.” [6]
5) Incorporating accessible information resources and instructional materials
“Assure that course materials, notes, and other information resources are flexible and accessible to all students. By preparing a syllabus and selecting texts early, students have the option to begin reading materials early or coordinate their conversion into an alternative format.” [5]
6) Promote mutual respect
“Demonstrate mutual respect and encourage sharing of multiple perspectives.” [5]
Inclusive teaching strategies
1) “Create a consistent routine
Make the structure of each day similar but change tasks within the structure to keep the day interesting. Prepare students for changes in routine by letting them know when a change is coming up, and including visual supports (such as social stories) or other individually determined supports (such as pairing with a friend) where relevant.” [8]
2) “Provide encouragement and guide learning
Consider providing effective, actionable feedback immediately when students are learning a task or behavior. This can be gradually reduced as they become more independent.” [8]
3) “Keep activities and instructions short, clear and engaging. This can help students focus and learn. Frequent breaks may also help.” [8]
4) “Teach problem solving skills
Teach students how to find solutions to challenges they face, including when and how to seek help. Encourage students to view mistakes, problems, or challenges as an opportunity to learn.” [8]
5) Set joint learning outcomes and goals
“Work collaboratively with the student’s parents as well as any key stakeholders to set some growth goals. Aim to set outcomes that focus on the student’s strengths and are challenging enough to support learning and social development.” [8]
“Looking ahead, the future of inclusive education is bright, with continuous advancements in teaching methodologies, technologies, and societal attitudes. The increasing global emphasis on human rights and equality is also driving changes in educational policies and practices. Future trends may include more personalized learning experiences, greater use of technology, and deeper collaboration between educational institutions and communities. Creating an inclusive environment in education is not just a noble goal but a necessary one for building a more equitable and empathetic society.” [6]
“Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is a genetic condition present from birth. Its primary feature is fractures usually caused by minimal impact. This information sheet from Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) describes osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), what causes it and how it can be managed. It also tells you about the highly specialized service for OI based at GOSH.
Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is a defect where collagen (the protein that is responsible for bone structure) is missing, reduced or of low quality, so is not enough to support the minerals in the bone. This makes the bone weak, which in turn makes the bones easy to fracture.” [1]
What are the types of osteogeneses imperfecta?
“Experts categorize OI into 19 types. Healthcare providers classify osteogenesis imperfecta as Type I through Type XIX.
The first four osteogenesis imperfecta types are the most common. These include:
Type I: This is the mildest and most common form of OI. Type I leads to broken bones (bone fractures) or muscle weakness. It doesn’t cause any bone deformity.
Type II: Babies born with Type II often can’t breathe and die young. Type II causes multiple broken bones even before the baby is born.
Type III: Babies often have broken bones at birth. Type III often leads to severe physical disabilities.
Type IV: Bones may break easily. Usually, children with this type have their first bone break before puberty. People with Type IV may have mild to moderate bone deformity. [2]
Who might get brittle bone disease?
Anyone can be born with brittle bone disease. However, you are more likely to have OI if you have a family history of the disease.
Osteogenesis imperfecta is rare. It affects around 1 in every 20,000 people.” [2]
Famous People Who Have or Had Osteogenesis Imperfecta
“These individuals contribute to the rich tapestry of human achievement, demonstrating that talent, determination, and resilience can triumph over any obstacle. Their stories continue to inspire and challenge societal perceptions, fostering a more inclusive world for people of all abilities. They have not let anything stand in their way – and neither should us.
Life is never easy when you are living with a disability, but there is always a way to make life easier. It’s important to remember that if you yourself have a disability or know somebody that has it, you’re not alone. We all together can make a difference and support each other. Staying positive and looking for creative solutions to benefit the world helped these inspirational people overcome their circumstances and achieve greatness.” [9 & 10]
“Hearing loss is a widespread health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It can make it hard for people to communicate and connect with others, which can be frustrating and isolating. Many factors can contribute to hearing loss, such as age, noise exposure, or certain health conditions.” [3]
“466 million people worldwide suffer from hearing loss according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The number doesn’t stop growing, mainly due to the ageing population, but also to bad habits such as acoustic contamination or listening to music at high volume. It’s estimated that in 2050 the amount will reach 900 million.” [1]
“About 8% of deaf or hard-of-hearing adults in the United States actively sought work in 2018, but fewer found it, with most only finding part-time positions—and only 39.5% employed full-time, compared to 57.5% of hearing peers. The same disparities exist in education. Despite the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) rules, normal schools and colleges are rarely structured in a way that allows Deaf and hard-of-hearing students to thrive, and only a few deaf and hard-of-hearing educational institutions exist. Only 18% of deaf or hard of hearing (DHOH) people hold a bachelor’s degree or above, compared to 33 percent of working-age hearing individuals.” [2]
What is the solution?
People have been trying to help those with hearing loss for a long time. Traditional methods include using hearing aids and attending therapy sessions. Each has its benefits, but they also have some limitations.
“Hearing aids are using AI to create smarter and more adaptive multipurpose devices that enhance speech, reduce noise, translate languages, track fitness and health metrics, and more.” [4]
“AI is the science of developing machines, particularly computer systems, to perform tasks that require human intelligence.
AI-powered hearing aids are set to revolutionize hearing aids in both noise and quiet. AI hearing aids listen to the millions of sounds you hear daily and make millions of fine-tune adjustments in real-time.” [4]
AI in Hearing Support Technologies
“AI is starting to be a game-changer for people with hearing loss. Here’s how it’s helping:
Smart Hearing Aids: New hearing aids with AI can do amazing things. They can tell the difference between someone talking and background noise. So, if you’re in a busy place, they can help you hear the person you’re talking to, not all the noise around you.
Automatic Adjustments: AI can also learn what sounds you like or don’t like. Then, it can automatically adjust your hearing aid to make those sounds clearer or softer. It’s like having a tiny sound engineer in your ear, tweaking the settings just for you.
Clearer Calls and Videos: AI is also helping to improve phone calls and video chats by filtering out noise and making sure you hear the person you’re talking to, not the traffic outside their window.” [3]
Advantages of AI Over Traditional Methods
“AI is bringing some big improvements over older ways of helping with hearing loss:
Personalized Sound: AI can fine-tune sounds to exactly match your needs. It’s not one-size-fits-all; it’s tailored just for you.
Background Noise Reduction: AI is good at tuning out unwanted noise so you can focus on what you want to hear.
Learning Over Time: The more you use AI, the better it gets. It learns from your experiences and adjusts to make sounds clearer and more comfortable.
In short, AI is making hearing support more intelligent and more personal. AI is not just a new tool; it’s a whole new way of thinking about helping people with hearing loss.” [3]
“From breaking down communication barriers to fostering inclusivity, AI is making a profound impact on the hearing-impaired community:
Breaking Down Communication Barriers.
Fostering Inclusivity.
Unleashing New Avenues of Independence;
Enhancing Auditory Experiences;
Revolutionizing Assistive Learning;
Social and Psychological Benefits”. [3]
Ongoing Research and Future Advancements
“Even though there are challenges, scientists and tech experts are working hard to improve AI. Here’s what they’re working on:
Improving Accuracy: Researchers are trying to make AI understand speech and sign language even better. This means fewer mistakes and clearer communication.
Making AI More Personal: In the future, AI can learn more about how people like to communicate and adjust to their style. It’s like having a personal assistant that knows precisely what you need.
Lowering Costs: Tech companies and researchers are looking for ways to make AI more affordable so that more people can use it. This might mean finding cheaper ways to make devices or creating simpler apps that still do a lot of good stuff.
Easier to Use: The goal is to simplify AI tools for everyone. This means designing them so they’re easy to set up and only need some tech skills.” [6]
“In conclusion, As the realm of artificial intelligence continues to evolve, its impact on the hearing-impaired community grows increasingly profound. From dismantling communication barriers to fostering inclusivity, enhancing independence, and revolutionizing education and healthcare, AI is ushering in an era of empowerment and transformation.” [5]
“Parents with disabilities are people with certain disorders (mental, physical, or other types) who are raising young children or being cared for by their young children.” [1]
“Parenting with a disability is achievable and nurtures strong families and compassionate children. Disability is only one factor of how or if disabled people parent, but being disabled does not determine how great of a parent they will be.” [2]
“We often talk about resources for parents of children with disabilities. But what about resources just for parents with disabilities?
It’s a longstanding and harmful myth that adults with disabilities cannot be parents, let alone good parents. Negative stereotypes and demeaning policies and legislation put parents with disabilities in a difficult position. We don’t openly talk about what it is like having a disability and being pregnant or the stigma disabled parents face in custody battles. But we need to!” [3]
Here are some facts about parents with intellectual disabilities.
“There are 4.1 million parents with disabilities in the U.S.
5.6 million Americans live with paralysis due to stroke, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, neurofibromatosis, cerebral palsy, post-polio syndrome, other.
1 in 10 children have a parent with a disability.
35 states include disability as grounds for termination of parental rights.
2/3 of dependency statutes allow the court to determine that a parent is unfit on the basis of a disability.
In every state, disability of the parent can be included in determining the best interest of the child.
DC, GA, KS, MD, MS, ND, NM, OH, OK, & SC allow physical disability as the sole grounds for terminating parental rights, even without evidence of abuse or neglect.” [5]
“Just because you have an intellectual disability does not mean your child will have a disability.
Having an intellectual disability does not mean you are a bad parent. You can be a good parent.
Parents with intellectual disabilities sometimes have a hard time getting healthy food. They may also deal with stress and worry.
Raising children without help can be hard. So, it is important to look for help at the beginning, even before your baby is born.
Sometimes doctors do not know how to help parents with intellectual disabilities.
People with intellectual disabilities may need help understanding pregnancy and childbirth.” [4]
“Between 60 and 90 per cent of women with mild learning disabilities want to marry and have children (Bratlinger, 1985 cited in Aunos & Feldman, 2002). Researchers concur that parents with learning disabilities can successfully raise their children if they are given support that matches their needs (Booth & Booth, 1994; Feldman 1994; Edmonds, 2000; Aunos & Feldman, 2002). Tarleton, Ward and Howarth (2006) highlight that whilst successful parenting is a great challenge for these parents, if they are to be given the same chance as other people, ‘they need access to services which will support them in their parenting role, so that they are able to successfully “parent with support”’ (p.88).” [7]
7 Practical Tips for Parenting with a Disability
1. “Forget the Critics: First and foremost, forget all of the people who say you can’t do this—that’s a lie.” [9]
2. “Get Creative: Unfortunately, there are limited products on the market adapted for parenting with a disability. It goes without saying you’ll have to get creative.” [9]
3. Ask for Help: Everybody needs help. When parenting with a disability, it’s important to have a plan for how you will care for your child. “The government says that parents with intellectual disabilities should be given support to help them be good parents. Some services around the country are supporting adults with intellectual disabilities to be good parents. Some parents get help to learn the skills they need to take good care of their children. Some parents get help to keep their house safe and clean for their children. Some parents go to groups where they meet other parents. Some parents get support to go to meetings or go to court to try to keep their children. Some parents take classes about being a good parent. Some parents have one worker who they trust and talk to a lot. There can be lots of workers involved in a family’s life, like social workers, child welfare workers, and people from other agencies.” [8]
4. “Stick to a Routine: I cannot stress enough the importance of sticking to a consistent routine. This will be one of the most important things that you can do to successfully parent with a disability. Benefits of Sticking to a Routine: Adhering to a consistent routine helps expose children to healthy habits. It helps establish independence in children. It creates a calmer household. It helps alleviate the power struggles between the parents and the child.” [9]
It’s important to note that sticking to a consistent routine does not mean implementing a strict regimen without room for flexibility. Creating a consistent routine means following a general guide for the way you will incorporate habits into your daily life. [9]
5. “Focus on your Strengths: When parenting with a disability, it’s important to focus on your strengths rather than your limitations. Identifying your unique set of strengths will empower you to feel confident with your children and reduce the chances of spiraling down a hole of negative thoughts.” [9]
6. “Openly Talk with you Children: Be open and honest with your kids about disability and the ways in which you’re different from other parents. Kids are naturally curious and will ask a lot of questions. Responding to them in a matter-of-fact but positive manner will let them know that it’s OK to discuss disability and that it’s not something to hide.” [9]
7. “Know You are Not Alone: Although it may seem like you’re the only one parenting with a disability, there are others out there who are not only struggling but excelling just like you. It’s important to not seclude yourself in isolation for fear of other’s opinions.” [9]
Advocacy groups and resources that can help lighten the load
“Parental Rights Foundation: Educates the public on and advocates for the rights of families and parents.
Dreamscape Foundation: Aims to make schools, workplaces and the community more accessible and highlights resources that can help people live and work more independently.
Through the Looking Glass: Identifies research and resources for families in which a parent, a child or another family member lives with a disability.” [6]
“One billion people (or the equivalent of 15 percent of the global population) experience a form of disability. For some, it’s more overt, and for others, it’s completely unseen as an invisible disability.” [1]
“There are many examples of creative people who have not allowed disability to dictate the limits of their potential. Whether the onset of disability has occurred at birth, in childhood or adulthood, if the creative person’s spirit is strong enough, there seems to be no end to what people can achieve.
There are many authors who have not let their disability stop them achieving artistic success. Here is a list of some of writers who overcame obstacles that would have held back less determined souls.” [2]
“Each of these authors has a very different story, but they share one thing in common—all of them overcame great obstacles in writing their well-known works. We want to celebrate the strength and success of these authors who refused to let their disability stop their success and ability to follow their passion for writing. They are inspirational!” [4]
Horizon Project provides supports and opportunities for personal growth, integration, and independence to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities but we also provide professional development for the people who support them. Each team member have a special value to us and get to live a unique experience at HPI. Today we will have a joy to know a little bit about our team member Angela Y. – our STEP Center Specialist, and learn from her.
1) When did you start working for HPI? l has been working for HPI in since 2014.
2) Why did you wish to work for Horizon Project Inc.? When I came to work for HPI I did not know much about HPI or how It impacted the Disabled community in our small town. When l first started working here HPI was still doing the recycling and the clients were working in the in the recycling area. HPI has changed a lot since then. It is good to see the growth from the clients going from working in the recycling area to clients working in intrigued employment in our community.
3) What do you feel is the most important part of working with Adults with Disabilities? I feel the most important part of being a DSP is getting to change the lives the people we work with by helping them achieve their goals. I work down at the day support activities room.
4) Could you share with us any memorable story/experience you had with clients? Most days are memorable experiences with the people I support. They all have their own unique personalities and styles that make this experience for me 1 in a million. It is a very rewarding job.
5) Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to start working with IDD clients? My advice to any one coming to work as a DSP is get to know the people you are working with. Have an open mind. They are capable of doing anything they set their minds to do. Encourage their growth. Have fun with them make your day enjoyable. Treat them how you would want to be treated. Since becoming a DSP it has changed my idea of the IDD community for the better. They have taught me that we all have dreams that we want to achieve and so do they. All it takes is awesome staff to help them figure out what their dreams are and help them to achieve them. Do not set limits on them. They may take a little longer achieving their goals but with the right support from staff. They can accomplish anything they choose to accomplish. It an amazing feeling when they accomplish their goals and being a part of that change to make a difference in their lives. Sometimes the small achievements are the big achievements.
Angela is one of the amazing people that make difference and other people’s lives. We are so thrilled to have her in our team!
On April 11, 2024 Horizon Project Inc. held an open house for the STEP Center for Independent Living’s new space located at 25 S.E. Fourth St. in Hermiston.
Horizon Project Inc’s, STEP Center for Independent Living offers services in Hermiston, Pendleton, and Milton-Freewater, Oregon for Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to engage in life.
Our team of caring staff create a vibrant and person-centered learning experience that not only allows them to access community events but also teaches them daily living skills and supports their inquisitive minds through all kinds of group and individual activities.
STEP Center stands for Steps to Empowerment Program, and services offered are critical components to ensuring that individuals experiencing IDD can gain employment and life skills, achieve personal goals, and live independently.
Key components of programming at the STEP Center are:
Individual and group coaching on finances, goal-setting, interpersonal skills, communication, productivity, problem-solving, hygiene, attire, and punctuality.
Employment training tailored to individuals living with IDD.
Hands on training in trade-specific skills such as cooking and nutrition.
The STEP Center for Independent Living connects individuals to the community so that they may experience a life full of wonderment and adventure.
• Discovery/Career Exploration Services: This is a person-centered, time-limited service that is a precursor to job development. Individuals explore their employment options and identify their interests, strengths, abilities, transferable skills, and conditions for success.
• Employment Path Services: After people have identified their employment goals, Horizon professionals help people develop the skills needed to realize their goals. Focusing on abilities rather than disabilities, learn new skills and obtain work experience, which often includes volunteer opportunities.
• Job Development/Placement: After successfully completing Discovery and Employment Path training, individuals work with Horizon Job Developers to identify appropriate job opportunities. Job seekers are involved in every aspect of the job placement process.
• Supported Employment Services: After placement, Horizon Job Coaches work with individuals to maintain or advance their employment. Job coaching supports are based on the individual’s needs and goals, short- or long-term, are identified and implemented to ensure successful employment.
• Community Living Program: Horizon Project offers daily activities and skill building for people who are of retirement age, who have chosen not to pursue employment opportunities, or who are preparing for the Employment Discovery Process. Community Living activities are offered in all three Horizon Project locations. Horizon DSPs mentor individuals in several areas such as safety in the community, socialization, and education.
“Due to a demand for increased services in the area, Horizon Project has opened a new facility- the STEP Center for Independent Living.
This program will offer an 8-step course with a streamlined delivery of skill building techniques and curriculum that encompasses differentiated instruction methods. Our program will focus on attributes that encourage independence and professionalism while immersing students in employment readiness and job preparedness scenarios. This is an exciting opportunity for Horizon and the community we serve, our hope is to help young adults easily transition into the next step!” -Bryn Hill, Community Integration Liaison
“The new space for the STEP Center will have long-lasting benefits. It will touch many, many lives in Umatilla County.”- Kent Perkes, HPI board member and parent whose son completed the STEP Center’s program.
“The new space provides much more room for staff and the individuals they serve. Now everyone has room to spread out.” – Terri Silvis, CEO of Horizon Project Inc.
The Open house on April 11th was a huge success!
Many people from the community and from out of town stopped by to see the new building and learn about the services that are now being offered.
During the first full week of April each year, the American Public Health Association (APHA) brings together communities across the country to observe National Public Health Week (NPHW).
“Since 1995, when the first full week of April was declared National Public Health Week (NPHW), communities across the United States have observed the time as an opportunity to recognize the contributions of public health and highlight issues that are important to improving the public’s health. It’s a time to unite around critical issues and focus our collective energy on the singular goal of helping people live longer, happier, healthier lives.” [1]
“Public health is more than just health care. It’s the steps we take to make sure our neighborhoods and environment are free from pollution. It’s making sure our food and water are safe to eat and drink. It’s also the relationships we foster in our communities. We’re all interconnected. When we all come together to support public health, all of us — individuals, families, communities and the public health field — can achieve the goals of public health.” [2]
Why National Public Health week is important?
“The power of community
National Public Health Week channels the power of community for the greater good. Health is a fundamental right. It’s a matter of public concern and should never be an individual struggle. We love how this week highlights what’s important.
It’s educational
The week opens our eyes in several ways. It busts well-established myths around food and exercise. We have access to credible resources on diseases of all kinds. What’s more, it offers well-researched perspectives into equitable, inclusive public health (or lack thereof).
It keeps you moving
It’s hard to stay still when everyone around is crushing a run or workout! National Public Health Week motivates even the laziest bums to make that first step towards a healthier lifestyle.” [4]
National Public Health Week: Disability and Accessibility
“Disability is a national public health issue needing special attention. We can ALL help to make our world a better place for individuals with disabilities.” [9]
“About 26% of U.S. adults have a disability, though Native Americans and senior citizens are disproportionately affected by disabilities. Adults with disabilities are also more likely to have heart disease, be smokers and have diabetes than the general population.” [7]
“To move toward health equity, it’s critical we recognize that people with disabilities are facing health disparities. One in three adults with disabilities does not have a primary health care provider, and one in three adults with disabilities has unmet health care needs due to financial cost. Since the passing of the Affordable Care Act, uninsured rates have decreased. Improving access to nutritious food — particularly in areas with limited access to fresh produce — has been linked to improving overall health and eating habits.” [7]
“We can improve the health of people living with disabilities and other marginalized groups by reducing healthcare disparities in health insurance, increasing physical accessibility to care, increasing availability of appropriate care, building more inclusive public health programs, and promoting healthy living.
It is vital to build supports with and through communities, not to and for them. This means that the development of programs, policies, and practices that affect adults living with disabilities should include their voices and opinions.” [8]
How to observe #NationalPublicHealthWeek
Educate Yourself
“The first step in celebrating National Public Health Week is to educate yourself about important public health issues. How do you do this? Well, you can start by visiting the official National Public Health Week website, which provides a wealth of information about various public health topics.
You can also read articles, watch videos, or, if you don’t have time for any of that, you can listen to a podcast about health and wellbeing. Some of the subjects you may want to explore include healthy eating, physical activity, mental health, infectious diseases (spooky!), and environmental health. Dealer’s choice!” [5]
Attend Local Community Events
“In observance of National Public Health Week, many community organizations and government agencies offer a series of events that invite local people to get involved. This might include lectures or seminars held at a university on topics related to public health, or it could be something more like a community health fair that educates as well as providing access to various resources and information to individuals and families. The week’s events might also include film screenings, symposiums, competitions and much more!” [3]
Make Healthy Choices
“Can’t escape a health week without some physical care, now, can we? Making healthy choices is an important part (dare we say the most important part) of celebrating National Public Health Week. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding risky behaviors like smoking and excessive drinking. By making these choices, you can improve your own health and set a positive example for others in your community.
Not sure where to start? Begin your week with some easy yoga videos on YouTube, and maybe cut sugar out of your diet for 7 days. You will be shocked at how much better you feel, and we really mean that. If you can do that, you can do anything! Probably!” [5]
Spread the Word
“One of the best ways to celebrate National Public Health Week is to spread the word about public health issues. Tell everyone you know that this is the time to make some serious life changes, even if they’re minor!
You can do this by sharing information with your friends and family members, posting on social media, or organizing a public event or presentation. By raising awareness about important public health issues, you can help to promote positive changes in your community.” [5]
Take Care of Your Mental Health
“SELF! CARE! Don’t neglect it!
This includes taking time to relax and de-stress, seeking support from friends and family members, and seeking professional help if needed. By taking care of your mental health, you can improve your overall well-being and set a positive example for others in your community. Even if that community is your cat or dog. We don’t judge!” [5]
“Now is the time for every individual to pull together to make America a healthy nation and to bring health and prosperity to every American community. Knowing the proven relationship between a healthy lifestyle and disease prevention, personal health, and enabling people to take control to improve their health via health education is imperative. Knowledge = Power = Health!” [6]
“In March, the Biden-Harris Administration announced a White House Proclamation declaring April as Care Workers Recognition Month to celebrate and highlight the critical contributions of care workers and caregivers across the nation and emphasize the growing demand for a robust care infrastructure for our future.” [5]
“President Biden designated April 2024 as Care Workers Recognition Month, honoring the invaluable contributions of care workers across the nation. President Biden outlined the crucial role these dedicated individuals play in “watch over our children, assist our parents, and support loved ones with disabilities”.[1]
“Every day, care workers dedicate themselves to ensuring the people we love are safe and secure. They watch over our children, assist our parents, and support loved ones with disabilities. Their work makes all other work possible. During Care Workers Recognition Month, we honor their tireless efforts; express our gratitude for their unwavering devotion; and commit to ensuring they receive the pay, benefits, and recognition they deserve.” Biden said. [2]
“Despite all they give to this country, care workers — including child care workers, home care workers, and long-term care workers — are among the lowest-paid workers in America. Some juggle multiple jobs, and many leave the profession altogether in search of better options. The vast majority of care workers are women, and a disproportionate share are people of color, so this chronic underpayment deepens gender and racial wealth gaps.” [3]
“Direct care workers are celebrated for allowing older adults, people with disabilities, and children with complex medical needs to remain in their homes and communities, living healthy, independent, and dignified lives.” [4]
“Investment in care workers is also identified as vital to labor force participation and a strong economy, with care workers providing family caregivers the assurance that their homes are being looked after and their loved ones are in the hands of professionals.” [4]
“Thanks to the White House’s announcement, and with the country paying attention like never before, now is the perfect time to celebrate the caregivers in our own lives.” [6]
“Honor a care worker or caregiver in your life — they can be a family caregiver, home care worker, nanny, childhood educator, child care worker, and more. Share how caregiving and caregivers have impacted your life and the lives of those you care about.” [7]
