Crime Victim Advocacy

My journey is rooted in personal experience, deep empathy, and a commitment to justice and equality. The murder of my father was a tragic and devastating event that profoundly shaped the rest of my life. He was brutally murdered in 1981, and the pain and injustice of that loss left a permanent mark on me. Navigating the complexities of the legal system and grappling with the emotional aftermath of such a tragedy was challenging for me and for my family. My personal experience with violent crime and its repercussions fueled my passion for supporting other victims and their families. It compelled me to become a voice for those who have endured similar heartache, ensuring that they receive the support they deserve.

My approach to advocacy is multifaceted, combining my background and personal experiences to provide both empathetic and practical support. I offer a compassionate ear and actionable advice, guiding victims and their families through the legal system, emotional recovery, and other aspects of their journey towards justice and healing.

I was honored to work on several legislative projects in my home state of Connecticut, providing research and analysis aimed at the impact of state agencies and their clients. I also spearheaded several large event development programs including media communications, public relations, extensive policy research, agency newsletter publishing.

Understanding the long-lasting emotional and psychological scars left by tragic experiences, I have been a resource to help individuals navigate the legal system and articulate their emotions through victim impact statements. My goal in assisting with my victim impact statement services is to ensure that crime victims have a voice and that they are supported.

Disability Advocacy

My advocacy for disability rights is both personal and professional. Living with cerebral palsy has given me a unique perspective on the challenges faced by individuals with all disabilities. I earned a Masters of Arts in Speech Language Pathology from Kansas State University, despite the obstacles of my disability, and worked in the geriatric and disability communities before taking a position as Human Services Advocate, Eldercare Assistant and Project Coordinator for the State Department of Rehabilitation Services, Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind; Connecticut Department of Social Services. The clients I served were predominantly elderly with multiple disabilities, and personal, medical, and financial problems. During my tenure I was involved in upgrading training programs to demonstrate how to create an integrated, accepting environment, increase awareness and sensitivity of disability issues and knowledge of ADA statutes.

I have channeled my personal and professional perspectives into creating educational workshops, lobbying for policy changes, and raising awareness about the importance of accessibility and inclusion. My efforts aim to shift the perceptions of disability, emphasizing that people with disabilities have many contributions to offer. By highlighting these strengths and advocating for equal opportunities, I strive to create a more inclusive and accepting world, not just for myself, but for others.

Independent Living and Senior Care Advocacy

Having lived in and actively advocated for residents in independent living facilities, I identified critical gaps in the care and resources available to seniors. To address these issues, I devised a detailed proposal that educates administrative staff and corporate managers on the true needs of seniors. My initiative includes practical solutions to enhance the quality of life for residents, particularly those with significant medical, sensory, and cognitive impairments, ensuring that seniors receive the dignified and comprehensive care they deserve..

LGBTQ+ Advocacy

Being part of the LGBTQ+ community, I am deeply committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals. My work includes facilitating support groups that provide safe spaces for individuals to share their experiences and find community. My efforts in this area are aimed at fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance, helping to create a society where everyone can live authentically and without fear of discrimination.

Throughout my advocacy work, I employ innovative procedures that combine evidence-based practices with personal insights. This allows me to develop and work with resources that are effective. Whether it’s through healing programs for crime victims, grief and trauma support, proposals for eldercare improvements, or education and awareness of disability rights, my goal is to create meaningful and lasting positive change.

I am a person of resilience and relentless pursuit of justice. I am driven by the belief that everyone deserves to live a life of dignity, respect, and equality. By leveraging my personal experiences and professional expertise, I have been able to make a significant impact in the lives of many, some I may never know. My experience is one of empowerment, transformation, and an enduring commitment to creating a better world for all.