At least 173 ProAct participants from three sites joined the Virtual Disability Services Day at the Capitol on March 8, which held an online rally. Individuals decorated posters for the event, advocating for themselves and letting others know how important their staff are in assisting them in their daily lives, said Program Manager Stephanie Osman.

“People enjoyed hearing stories from other organizations and receiving messages from government officials,” she said.  “And, listening to the many advocates who are diligently working for continued and enhanced services for people with disabilities.”

Individuals made and displayed signs extolling the virtues of direct support professionals (DSPs) and advocating directly for the disability cause.  The message was clear that greater supports are needed for these essential services.

Red Wing participants were excited to see State Representative, Barb Haley (R-Red Wing) speak as part of the rally. The gathering fostered good discussions afterwards between participants about important disability issues and ways to contact political officials to make their voices heard.

The annual gathering is involves ProAct’s state association, the Minnesota Organization for Habilitation and Rehabilitation. Please see mohrmn.org to learn more.