Ability Radio

Join host Amelia Hedley-Lemont in this episode about the integral roles of the University Center of Excellence on Developmental Disabilities (VIUCEDD) and the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. Guests Shamika Thomas, MPH, CCHW, Executive Director of VIUCEDD, and Shammi Carr, DRCVI Advocate, discuss how these organizations serve the broader community by providing essential services and advocacy for people with disabilities.  Explore the free services the UCEDD offers the entire community, ranging from early intervention to assistive technology and a lending closet for durable medical supplies. Shamika Thomas explains how these resources are made accessible to the community through grants and partnerships, while Shammi Carr highlights the collective efforts to drive systemic change for individuals with disabilities across the territory. Learn about the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program, a pioneering initiative aimed at fostering leaders in the disability advocacy field. Discover how this program, in collaboration with the Westchester Institute for Human Development, equips Virgin Islanders with the skills needed to advance disability services. Finally, the episode touches on the various training sessions and events like Voices That Count, illustrating how these initiatives offer platforms for meaningful dialogue and collaboration.

Welcome to Ability Radio, hosted by Amelia Headley-Lamont from the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Sonia Taylor-Griffith, a dedicated pediatric dentist serving the communities of St. Thomas and St. Croix. Dr. Griffith sheds light on the prevalent issue of dental decay among children in the territory and discusses how dietary habits, especially the intake of processed foods rich in sugar, significantly contribute to this concerning trend. Dr. Griffith emphasizes the importance of early and consistent dental care, recommending that children visit the dentist as soon as their first tooth appears to combat early decay. She shares practical advice for parents, such as substituting sugary juices with water and promoting healthy eating habits to prevent dental issues. The conversation also explores adaptive dental care strategies for children with special needs, addressing challenges in improving oral hygiene and the importance of consistent therapy support from professionals such as occupational and speech therapists. Dr. Griffith highlights the need for community awareness and addressing barriers to access, ensuring every child receives the dental care they deserve. Join us for an insightful discussion on ensuring healthier, brighter smiles for our children.

In this captivating episode of Ability Radio, host Amelia Headley-Lamont from the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands welcomes a special guest, Dr. Alexis Pauline Gumbs. Dr. Gumbs, a renowned author and self-proclaimed queer black feminist love evangelist, discusses her latest work, "Survival is a Promise: The Eternal Life of Audre Lorde." The conversation delves into Dr. Gumbs' unique perspective as an "aspirational cousin to all life," emphasizing the interconnectedness of all beings. She shares insights into her writing process, inspired by the multifaceted life of Audre Lorde, a literary icon known for her profound exploration of diverse life forms, from marine life to outer space. Listeners will be intrigued by stories of Audre Lorde's life, her influence on Dr. Gumbs, and her enduring legacy. The episode highlights Lorde's journey of self-preservation, activism, and her vibrant life in St. Croix, where she became an integral part of the community. Join us for an enlightening discussion that celebrates the profound impact of Audre Lorde's work and the ways in which Dr. Gumbs continues to honor her legacy through her writings and advocacy.

As the upcoming election day on November 5th approaches, we are pleased to have Caroline Fawkes, the Supervisor of Elections, as our guest to discuss essential voting information. Caroline shares updates on voting centers across St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, emphasizing the new accessibility features and the importance of early voting. In this previously recorded episode, we discuss the absentee ballot process, early voting opportunities, and accessibility measures to ensure that individuals with disabilities can participate seamlessly. Caroline highlights the voting equipment designed to assist disabled voters, underscoring the significance of ADA compliance in voting centers. We also explore the importance of engaging younger voters and the roles of different elected positions, such as the Board of Education and the Constitutional Convention. Caroline emphasizes the power of every vote and encourages listeners to participate actively in shaping the future of the Virgin Islands. Join us as we discuss the qualifications for voting, the significance of various elected roles, and the resources available for voters to stay informed. Don't miss this informative episode as we encourage everyone, especially individuals with disabilities, to exercise their right to vote.

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.