In this episode, host Kishma B. Francis dives into the topic of healthy gaming with special guest Dr. Alok Kanojia, a psychiatrist and founder of Healthy Gamer. Dr. Kanojia, a recovering video game addict, shares his insights on how gaming can become an addiction and offers valuable advice on how parents and teachers can help children develop a balanced relationship with video games. He discusses the impact of gaming on individuals with ADHD and autism and highlights the importance of understanding the underlying reasons behind excessive gaming. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Kanojia emphasizes the significance of communication between parents and children, the benefits of gaming, and how to foster self-regulation in kids. He also provides a glimpse into his book, "How to Raise a Healthy Gamer," which offers practical steps for parents to manage their child's gaming habits effectively. Join us for an enlightening discussion on creating a healthy gaming environment and nurturing a positive relationship with technology.

Welcome to "Ability Radio," hosted by Angus Drigo and brought to you by the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. In this episode, we sit down with Ms. Caribel Leyva-Romero, Community Engagement Program Coordinator for the Veterans Health Administration. Together, they discuss the importance of suicide prevention and the broader healthcare needs of veterans in the Virgin Islands. Ms. Romero shares insights into the structure of the Veterans Administration and her role in creating community coalitions aimed at improving veterans' access to services. She highlights the collaborative efforts between local organizations, families, and the VA to address gaps in care and support systems for veterans. Tune in to learn more about how you can get involved in these crucial initiatives and help make a difference in the lives of veterans in your community.

Join host Kishma B. Francis on Ability Radio, presented by the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands, as she delves into part two of an insightful conversation about the Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) community program. This episode features Jacqueline Greenidge-Payne, the 2024 Vanguard Award recipient and Director for the State Office of Emergency Medical Services, nurse practitioner Kami Mead, and advocate Dawn O'Brien. Discover the incredible work of the MIH team, a dedicated group of four professionals who go above and beyond to provide essential healthcare services to those in need. Hear heartwarming success stories, learn about their challenges, and find out how to get involved as a volunteer or donor to support their mission. Please tune in to understand how this program is making a difference in the lives of patients and their families and why community support and awareness are crucial for its continued success.

Welcome to a special episode of Ability Radio, brought to you by the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. Join host Kishma B. Francis as she sits down with three extraordinary women: Jacqueline Greenidge-Payne, Kami Mead, and Dawn O'Bryan, to discuss the impactful Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) program. Jacqueline Greenidge-Payne, the Director of the State Office of Emergency Medical Services and a Vanguard Award recipient, shares her inspiring journey from a nurse to a paramedic, highlighting her exceptional 35 years of service. Kami Mead, a dedicated nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience, and Dawn O'Brien, an advocate with the Disability Rights Center, also share their experiences and roles within the MIH program. The conversation delves into the inception of MIH post-Hurricane Maria in 2017, its mission to provide holistic healthcare services to the community, and the extraordinary lengths the team goes to ensure the well-being of their patients. From medical care to home safety and even yard maintenance, the MIH team truly exemplifies community care. Learn about the critical support from organizations like Pafford EMS and the community health clinic and discover the future aspirations for expanding this state-of-the-art program. Don't miss out on this heartwarming and informative discussion! For more information, visit the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands on their YouTube channel or at www.drcvi.org.

Welcome to this episode of Ability Radio, brought to you by the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. Join hosts Kishma B. Francis and guest Dr. Trisha Harris as they delve into the crucial topic of hygiene and its various aspects. Dr. Harris, a medical provider serving St. Croix and St. Thomas, provides a comprehensive overview of personal, environmental, and sleep hygiene. Learn the importance of proper hand washing, dental care, and maintaining a healthy routine to ensure overall well-being. Discover the connections between hygiene, nutrition, and mental health, and gain valuable tips on creating a bedtime routine, managing stress, and improving sleep hygiene. Dr. Harris also emphasizes the significance of addressing mental health openly and seeking professional help when needed. Tune in for practical advice and insights to help you enhance your hygiene practices and improve your health. For more information, contact the St. Thomas East End Medical Clinic or Frederikstead Healthcare Center in St. Croix.

Join Amelia Hedley-Lamont from the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands as she hosts Alecia Wells, Chairwoman of the Virgin Islands Board of Elections. This episode of Ability Radio dives into the critical role of the Board of Elections, the voting process, and exciting changes aimed at making voting more accessible and engaging for everyone. Learn about the structure of the Board, the importance of voter registration, and the various ways voters, including those incarcerated, can cast their ballots. Ms. Wells also shares her vision for the future of voting, including the potential for voting via mobile devices, and highlights upcoming voting expos designed to educate and energize the electorate. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on the intricacies of the election system and the efforts to enhance voter participation in the Virgin Islands.

Welcome to Ability Radio, brought to you by the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. Hosted by Kishma B. Francis, this episode features a special guest, Dawn O'Bryan, an advocate with the Disability Rights Center. Dawn shares her passion for community connection and the multifaceted role of an advocate. Discover the impactful work being done through a public health grant, in collaboration with the Department of Health's Mobile Integrated Healthcare Community Paramedicine program. Learn how this initiative provides vital home care and social interaction to individuals who have disabilities and medical conditions, ensuring they receive the necessary medical and social support. Dawn talks about the innovative texting program designed to inspire and inform parents, guardians, and educators with affirmations and valuable resources. She also discusses the importance of mental health advocacy and the challenges faced by individuals in the community. Additionally, Kishma and Dawn introduce the Hygiene Project, aimed at addressing hygiene poverty among students. This initiative provides essential hygiene products to students, promoting health and well-being. Tune in to hear Dawn's words of wisdom and learn how you can get involved in making a positive impact in the community. For more information, visit www.drcvi.org

In this episode, hosted by Kishma B. Francis, we dive into the significance of ADA Month with special guest Shammi Carr, a seasoned advocate at the Disability Rights Center. Shammi takes us through the rich history of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), highlighting its evolution from the early struggles of people with disabilities to the modern-day achievements and ongoing challenges. She also sheds light on the pivotal roles played by veterans and other key figures in advancing disability rights. We explore the changes in ADA over the past five years, focusing on employment and hybrid work models - some that began as an ADA accommodation almost 20 years ago and catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Shammi also shares insights into local efforts in the US Virgin Islands to improve accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities. As we approach the 34th anniversary of the ADA, learn about the exciting events and initiatives planned for July, including the Emergency Preparedness ADA Expo and various training sessions. Shammi emphasizes the importance of continuous advocacy and community involvement in promoting disability rights. Join us in celebrating the milestones achieved and the work still to be done to ensure a more inclusive society for all. For more information, visit the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands at www.drcvi.org.   Links: Disability Rights Center Of the Virgin Islands - YouTube VIADA - Government of the United States Virgin Islands ADA Information, Guidance, and Training | The Northeast ADA Center Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ADA Anniversary | ADA National Network (adata.org) Crip Camp Film https://youtu.be/OFS8SpwioZ4?si=U3dG38sAwvSXNtcm Virgin Islands Association for Independent Living - Nonprofit (independentlivingvi.org)

Welcome to Ability Radio, brought to you by the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. Today, host Angus Drago engages in a compelling discussion with Brandy Brooks, Prevention Coordinator at The Village, VI Partners in Recovery. The Village is the only residential treatment facility for substance use disorder in the Virgin Islands, offering crucial support for individuals from Water Island, St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix. Brandy shares insights into the prevention programs she coordinates, such as Project Horizon, which empowers youth aged 12 to 24 through life skills education to avoid substance use disorder. She also highlights the Strengthening Families program aimed at fostering healthy relationships between parents and children. The episode delves deeply into post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), emphasizing its significance during PTSD Awareness Month. Brandy explains what PTSD is, its causes, and its impact on mental health. She also discusses the connection between trauma and substance use, particularly among youth who may turn to substances to cope with unresolved trauma. Listeners will learn about the symptoms of PTSD, the importance of mental health checkups, and the various resources available for support, including Greater Changes, Island Therapy Solutions, and Beautiful Dreamers. Brandy also touches on the importance of community support and the need to destigmatize mental health and substance use disorders. Join us for this enlightening conversation and learn how to support yourself and others in making healthier choices and seeking the care needed for a better quality of life.

Kishma Francis delves into the wonderful world of the Virgin Islands Children's Museum with Amber McCammon, the Executive Director of Facilities and Programs. Amber shares an insightful overview of the museum, highlighting its interactive play spaces that foster family engagement and the various programs that reach children and families throughout the territory. Discover the exciting Youth Art Month exhibition, the ongoing online auction for youth art, and the impactful Teen Time program that supports middle and high school students through engaging activities. Learn about the museum's At Home Discovery Kit Program, which provides free educational kits to children, and their involvement in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, promoting early childhood literacy. Tune in to hear how these initiatives are making a difference in the community and supporting the youth of the Virgin Islands. Don't miss this inspiring episode filled with valuable information and heartwarming stories of transformation and community support. The Virgin Islands Children's Museum (vichildrensmuseum.org)

Troy De Chabert-Schuster, the State Director for AARP Virgin Islands, and our host, Amelia Headly Lamont, share the impactful work AARP is doing in the Virgin Islands. AARP focuses on advocacy and community outreach to empower individuals as they age. We discuss AARP's nonpartisan stance and initiatives, including anti-ageism legislation, anti-elder abuse measures, and guardianship reform. Troy also highlights the importance of community involvement and how AARP encourages fun with purpose through various activities and events. Troy emphasizes the significance of maintaining a positive mental attitude, engaging with younger generations, and staying active. He also shares personal experiences and offers insights into the support available for caregivers, including workshops and emotional support. Join us as we explore how AARP is making a difference in the lives of Virgin Islanders and learn how you can get involved in their mission to enhance the quality of life for all as we age. AARP Virgin Islands

Virgin Islands Housing Authority Resident Wellness and Empowerment Program Director Emmanuella Perez-Cassius and Marketing Specialist Kurtice Lewis discuss the programs that ensure VIHA residents experience wellness. They connect their residents to the programs and services available through VIHA and their partners and empower residents to advocate for themselves and their communities. They discuss resident council training, education and career readiness workshops, self-advocacy and self-determination training sessions, facilitating access to essential disability services, anti-stigma campaigns, and promoting accessibility in community spaces. Home - Virgin Islands Housing Authority (vihousing.org)

International competitive para-cyclist and para-Olympic hopeful, Andrew Hairston he is organizing Adaptive Sports Clinics for the third summer in St. Croix and St. Thomas. Hairston is a former U.S. Marine and St. Thomian, has a conversation with Amelia Headly Lamont about his experience as an adaptive athlete after his limb salvage.  Andrew runs an organization called "Salvage Life," which aims to help people with disabilities and para-athletes to remain active and competitive. His program, "Adapt VI," helps to bring sports options to people who are physically disabled or unable to participate in able-bodied sports. Adaptive Sports | Salvage Life (salvagelifevi.org)

Kishma Francis and Amelia Headly LaMont discuss the Virgin Islands Parent & Training Information Center (VIPTI), and the educational programs available in the US Virgin Islands - including DARRI's Book Club, "The Disability & Advocacy Rights Reading Initiative", "The Youth Empowerment and Leadership Program (YELP)", Art Therapy Sessions for students and school staff, "The Hygiene Project", and other Community Partnerships. Find more information about VIPTI and find resources relating to The "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)" from the "Center for Parent Information & Resource (CPIR)". Parent Resources (drcvi.org)

John Abramson Jr. and Amelia LaMont discuss the importance of voting and how when you vote, you are a member of the jury that decides who is in charge of improving the territory and supporting our rights. They explain how citizens can fulfill their civic duties to enhance and uphold the US Virgin Islands Territory by volunteering and participating in civic-minded organizations. 2024 is an election year, register to vote today!

Guest DeJongh "Dee" Wells and Kishma Francis talk about turning your passion into a career and how to create your own story as your journey continues.  He tells his story, starting in St. John, USVI, about developing your space in a niche you already know and loves. Dee successfully created several businesses and organizations from the feet up as a "kiskstorian" or "sneaker historian," who uses his knowledge of athletic footwear in a series of organizations and businesses that, among many other lessons, teach others how to gain and utilize STEAM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Arts, and Math) Skills. Check out SOLEcial Studies Community Academy at https://solecialstudies.com/  and follow his social media @DeeWellsOSD on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and Tik Tok.  Learn more about the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands (DRCVI) and find parent resources at www.DRCVI.org or (340) 772-1200 or (340) 776-4303. DRCVI's Youth Empowerment Leadership Program is a class that is currently on the schedule at US Virgin Islands Department of Education High Schools and expansion plans are underway for the 2024-2025 school year.

Errol Chichester, plant enthusiast, joins Amelia to talk about tropical fruits and other plants that grow well here in the U.S. Virgin Islands to encourage our people to start and maintain a garden to supplement their intake of imported food. He shares valuable tips and tricks - from which plants thrive here, where to plant them, and how to water and feed them.  We discuss what plants do well in the USVI, the steps to start a farm or garden, and educational programs. He also updates us about the citrus situation in the territory and beyond.

In this episode, the DRCVI staff talk about what we do as a protection and advocacy organization as they highlight our 2023 initiatives and successes. They also talk about what you can expect in 2024.

"Magali De Jesús Cordero of The AMSI Employment Network talks about the SSA "Ticket to Work Program" for people who are on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). She outlines how you can work part-time and stay on SSDI or transition to self-sufficiency, if it's right for your situation. DRCVI Advocate, Shammi Carr, explains how DRCVI assists job seekers who are disabled by helping them navigate their rights and responsibilities, accommodations made available through ADA laws, job skills readiness and how to access assistive technology with the help of The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR). Resources referenced in the episode: DRCVI Community Resource Employment GuideA Guide to Onet Online; La Guía de ONET Online-EspañolDRCVI Voc Rehab Quick GuideThe Vocational Rehabilitation Program Fact SheetThe Vocational Rehabilitation Program VR Time Line To schedule an initial appointment with a Work Incentive Planning and Assistance (WIPA) Benefits Advisor in Puerto Rico (VI will be referenced), call the Beneficiary Hotline at 1-866-968-7842.  787-784-5329 ext. 3009 Magadali De Jesus DRCVI (340) 772-1200

Dr. Rita Dudley-Grant introduces us to "Radical Acceptance" by giving us noteworthy tips on starting in the present moment, accepting where you are, and then moving forward from there to lead a happy, peaceful life - where you can "let it be" and recognize that health comes from within without blame and criticism.  Mario Capriola discusses what happens during the first mental health intake interview appointments, how to get started with therapy, and where to get emergency help. He also explains how to incorporate SMART goals into your life - and how small steps can lead to big results.  They explain how their doors are open to everyone and how they address behavioral health and developmental concerns to improve their patients' lives through therapies, medicines, and supports like Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Dr. Rita Dudley-Grant, Ph.D., MPH, ABPP, is the Clinical Community Outreach Coordinator for Island Therapy Solutions, a licensed clinical psychologist. She is also the past president and founding Association of Virgin Islands Psychologists (AVIP) member. Mario Capriola is an ITS Masters Intern therapist currently studying in The Master of Arts in Psychology program at The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI).