"A community can be judged by how they treat the neediest in their group. We should be proud of how we've addressed the needs of people with disabilities in our community."

- Bob McGuire, Executive Director

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Bob McGuire: I’m concerned. And you should be, too.

There are many great accomplishments to celebrate and applaud with regard to our organization’s history. The progress that’s been made over 60 years and the achievements of so many are testament to human will power and the ultimate sense of fairness. This periodical reflects the most recent successes and activities that highlight and confirm that the organization continues to meet the mission of our Agency: to provide the highest quality services to our children and our adults. All of our accomplishments have required a team effort. Of course we start with the participants in our programs, both the children and adults, our Board of Directors, the Council of Auxiliaries, our parents and volunteers, and our staff, along with the community, corporations and local, state and national leaders who recognize that individuals with disabilities deserve a chance at the “American Dream” and protection of their civil rights. All are responsible for the progress over these past 60 years.

Today, however, we can look at the economy and see fingers pointing and pencils slashing budgets that are not merely budgets, they’re people. All of us should be concerned about the current status of programs that serve individuals with disabilities. In our last Center Square, I suggested that readers send the Center Square to their representatives on every level so that we provide them continued education and evidence of their good decisions of the past. Today, more than ever, your voice needs to be heard. I have stated often times, that a real and present danger exists and it is never so clear as today.

We must prevent a roll back of the progress begun 60 years ago and accelerated in the past 25 years. We must ensure that individuals with disabilities have meaningful day programs. We must make certain that parents and individuals with disabilities have options in the residential environment so that when a family is no longer able to care for their family member, a welcoming home in the community exists. We must make sure that our representatives know our concerns. We must have the Governor hear your voice. Today, more than ever, you must speak up. You must let your representatives be aware that you have an interest in the continued progress and in the continued protection of the civil rights of individuals with disabilities.

To help me communicate with you, I would like to ask each of you who wish to be kept up-to-date with issues that affect our mission to send me your email address. Upon receipt, I will use today’s technology to expedite the communication process enabling you to have up-to-the minute information and opportunities to respond in a timely manner.

Thank you for your support.

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