Community Engagement
Disability Rights Connecticut works with individuals with disabilities, their families, and community partners to understand common goals, priorities, and visions. DRCT staff provides outreach and training to establish and maintain community relationships and implement strategies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.
DRCT can provide training, upon request, on issues related to our focus areas. If you believe you, or a group you are a member of, could benefit from training, please contact our Strategic Partnerships Manager, Michael Whilby at 860-856-4158 or Michael.Whilby@DisRightsCT.org
DRCT in the Community
DRCT Participates in CT Town Clerks Association Spring Conference! 04/18/2024
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Thursday, April 18th, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) participated in the Connecticut Clerks Association (CTCA) Spring Conference held at the Hartford County Doubletree Hilton in Bristol. Our concentration at the conference was to provide Connecticut town clerks with an overview of DRCT’s organizational services, that included a focus on voting accessibility and registration, along with educational services that help underserved communities and individuals with disabilities.
I would like to thank Sue Pawluck, Stratford Town Clerk and CTCA President, Patty Spruance for once again putting together a wonderful conference that included several CT non-profits and state agencies.
Finally, I want to give special thanks to my colleague, Staff Attorney Gina Teixeira and DRCT alum Jim Welsh for doing an outstanding job along with CT Family Support Network’s Executive Director, Adrianna Ramirez and Family Support Coordinator Melissa Mills for sharing a table with us. What a great example of teamwork and collaboration!
DRCT Attends 2024 Special Education Community Resource Fair at Mark T. Sheehan High School in Wallingford! 04/16/2024
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
I would like to thank Aimee Turner, Assistant Superintendent for Schools, Meghan Shortell-Fratantonio, Special Education Clerk, and all the members and volunteers from the Wallingford Public Schools for inviting Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) to their 2024 Special Education Community Resource Fair in Wallingford on Tuesday, April 16.
It was a great event that allowed DRCT to meet with parents of students with disabilities and community organizations. This event enabled us to continue to promote and showcase our education rights & supported decision making (SDM) clinics.
DRCT Takes Part in SEEK’s Special Education Resource/Provider Fair! 04/06/2024
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Saturday, April 6th, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) attended the Special Education Equity for Kids of CT (SEEK) Special Education Resource/Provider Fair at the Easton Community Center.
This fair included approximately thirty vendors across the state which included: evaluators, ABA providers, advocates & attorneys, special education schools, executive function coaches, speech language pathologists, along with occupational and physical therapists.
This event provided a wealth of informational advocacy materials for parents of students with disabilities, community providers, and professionals.
I would like to thank SEEK President, John Flanders and Vice-President, Naomi Nova for inviting DRCT to participate in today’s fair. It was nice meeting both of you and having the opportunity to talk with families and network with so many great organizations.
DRCT attends the disAbility Summit at Mohegan Sun 03/16/2024
by Jennifer Jenkins, Senior Advocate
On March 16, 2024, DRCT attended the disAbility Summit sponsored by LEARN Regional Education Service Center. This event offered families, caregivers, and other professionals in the Eastern region of the state an opportunity to connect with state and local agencies. The event also provided break-out sessions. DRCT was able to share information about employment, education, and voting, including our Special Education Clinic and our new Supported Decision Making Clinic. There were more than 300 people in attendance. A special thanks to Stephen Byers, Staff Attorney, for attending with me.
DRCT Finishes Up 2nd Year Disability Law Clinic! 01/04/2024
Supported decision making summit 11/09/2023
By Jennifer Jenkins, Senior Advocate
On November 9, 2023, DRCT partnered with the Connecticut Supported Decision Making Coalition and the Connecticut State Independent Living Council (SILC) to present the Supported Decision Making Summit. This event expanded the knowledge and outlook of individuals with disabilities, their families, providers, and other stakeholders about the benefits of Supported Decision Making (SDM).
Keynote speaker Jenny Hatch is a young woman who became the first person to win the right to use SDM instead of permanent guardianship. Her attorney, Jonathan Martinis, Esq, J.D., is the Senior Director for Law and Policy at the Burton Blatt Institute at Syracuse University. Since Jenny's case in 2013, over 20 states have passed laws recognizing SDM as an alternative to guardianship and conservatorship.
During the afternoon panel discussion, DRCT Executive Director and Attorney Deborah Dorfman educated the audience about Connecticut's recent law requiring school districts to provide information on SDM as an option to transition age students and their families. She also announced DRCT's plans to launch an SDM clinic after the new year to help individuals seeking an alternative to guardianship or conservatorship some assistance with creating an SDM plan.
In addition, Staff Attorney Stephen Byers updated the participants about the work DRCT has been doing over the past year to help individuals interested in SDM.
The SDM Coalition of CT has created several publications to help you learn more about SDM at different stages of life. You can view the publications in English or Spanish here: https://ctsilc.org/supported-decision-making/
You can also learn more at the National Center for Supported Decision-Making or at the Center for Public Representation website on SDM.
presentation by Attorney Jonathan Martinis, Esq., J.D.
presentation by Deborah Dorfman, DRCT Executive director, and stephen byers, staff attorney
Hartford Yard Goats 5th Annual Trick-or-Treat Event! 10/29/2023
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Sunday, October 29th, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) turned up for the Hartford Yard Goats 5th Annual Trick-or-Treat event at Dunkin’ Park in downtown Hartford. I would like to thank Abby Capone, Events Coordinator, along with all of the Hartford Yard Goats staff for putting together such a “frightful delight” that was free and open to the public and allowed kids ages 12 and under to participate. There were more than 2000+ people in attendance.
This wonderful event provided a fun, friendly, and enjoyable atmosphere for kids to come out to the stadium to celebrate Halloween and receive treats from several businesses, non-profits, and sponsors within the state.
DRCT Attends 2023 CBA’s YLS Pro Bono Fair and Golf Event! 10/19/2023
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Thursday, October 19th, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) attended on behalf of the Connecticut Bar Association’s (CBA) Young Lawyers Section (YLS) 2023 Pro Bono Fair and Golf Event at the Hartford Golf Club in West Hartford.
This event allowed my DRCT colleague & Staff Attorney, Steve Byers and myself to address the YLS, along with other non-profit organizations about several available pro bono opportunities within the organization. Some areas of pro bono work that we discussed included but were not limited to the following: Housing, Voting, Supportive Decision Making (SDM), Special Education, and Effective Communications in Health Care.
I would like to thank Jenn Shukla, CBA Director of Access to Justice Initiatives for reaching out to us and inviting us to this important event that provided non-profit and charitable organizations alike to speak about the amazing work we all do within the state.
DRCT Co-Hosts Informational Forum at the State’s Legislative Office Building! 10/04/2023
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On October 4th, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) and our community partners including CT State Independent Living Council (SILC) and others held an informational forum at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford called, “Community Living for People with Disabilities: A Promise Unfulfilled.”
The focus of this forum was to educate legislators and others about the benefits of community living and the ability of all people to live in the community, including people who have complex medical and/or behavioral support needs, along with the recommendation to close Southbury Training School.
I want to thank DRCT’s client, Barry Tripp for allowing me the opportunity to speak on his behalf about his personal experiences at Southbury Training School.
Barry’s story was emotional, impactful, and powerful that really spoke to the importance of community living and independence.
DRCT’s Strategic Partnerships Manager, Mike Whilby stands smiling (on the left side) with former resident of Southbury Training School and the Hartford Regional Center, Barry Scott Tripp.
Front row from left: Deborah Dorfman, Executive Director, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT); Molly Cole, Executive Director, CT State Independent Living Council (SILC); Barry Scott Tripp, former resident of Southbury Training School and the Hartford Regional Center; Back row from left: Barry Simon, President and CEO of Oak Hill; Dr. James Conroy; Mike Whilby, DRCT’s Strategic Partnerships Manager; Jean Bowen, Social Justice Advocate; Mike Demicco of Farmington, Unionville, CT State Representative.
DRCT Participates in Stand Down 2023! 9/22/23
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Friday, September 22nd, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) participated in the Stand Down 2023 event at the Bristol regional site.
This event services Connecticut Veterans, Active Duty, National Guard and Reserve military personnel, along with their families through other state and federal agencies, veterans organizations, and community-based nonprofits at the five following regional locations: Bridgeport, Bristol, Danbury, Norwich, and Rocky Hill.
I would like to thank Donna M. Dognin, Co-Founder/Executive Director of Veterans Strong Community Center, Inc., staff, and volunteers for putting this important event together at St. Gregory’s CCD Center. We appreciate the opportunity to be a part of this worthy cause.
Lastly, I would like to thank and recognize each veteran and their families for attending this event. We thank you for your service.
DRCT Presents at Connecticut Town Clerks Association
– Fall Conference! 9/21/23
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Thursday, September, 21st, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) attended the Connecticut Town Clerk’s Association (CTCA) – Fall Conference at Water’s Edge and Spa in Westbrook.
I want to thank CTCA President, Patty Spruance and Sue Pawluk, Stratford Town Clerk for allowing us the opportunity to provide a presentation at the conference that consisted of an Overview on DRCT, Supported Decision Making, and Voting Rights of Individuals with Disabilities.
I would like to thank my colleagues, Jim Welsh and Siobhan Morgan for presenting with me at Thursday’s conference. Another job well done!
DRCT Takes Part in 1st Annual Bridgeport Latino Fest USA 2023! 9/16/23
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Saturday, September 16th, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) participated in the 1st Annual Bridgeport “Pop Up” Latino Fest at McLevy Green Park.
This was a fun-filled multicultural celebration that had 35 vendors, along with amazing live entertainment, music, food, and giveaways in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
I would like to thank Vic Luna, CEO-President and Director of Latino Fest USA for putting this event together and bringing it to Bridgeport. Great job as always!
Finally, I want to thank DRCT’s Staff Attorney, Steve Byers and Disability Law Clinic student, Sandhya Aldmann for their fine work hosting our housing clinic to go along with our informational advocacy table.
DRCT attends Angel of Edgewood Back to school extravaganza 08/25/23
By Jennifer Jenkins, Senior Advocate
On August 25, 2023, Disability Rights Connecticut attended the Angel of Edgewood Back-to-School Extravaganza at Dunkin' Park in Hartford.
We would like to thank Jendayi Scott-Miller from the Angel of Edgewood organization and Denise Drummond from the Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity and Opportunity for organizing this important event!
The Back-to-School Extravaganza provided school supplies, educational resources, food, and essential household items to children, youth, and their families in the Greater Hartford area.
Thanks to staff members Maria Feliciano and Jennifer Jenkins for providing informational advocacy in Spanish and English on DRCT’s free education rights clinic which centers around helping students and families of students with disabilities, including students with special education needs or students who have or may need 504 plans.
DRCT was happy to participate in this event which had a positive impact on the academic and social-emotional success of children in the Hartford community for the upcoming school year.
DRCT Attends Riverfront Dragon Boat & Asian Festival! 8/19/23
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Saturday, August 19th, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) participated in the Riverfront Dragon Boat & Asian Festival at the Mortensen Riverfront Plaza in Hartford.
This festival helped celebrate Asian and Pacific Island cultures through traditional music and dance, food, martial arts, and dragon boat races.
I would like to thank my DRCT colleague, Jim Welsh for working the voting rights clinic and DRCT alum and volunteer, Siobhan Morgan for her work at our informational resource table as well. Great job!
DRCT Participates in CREC’s Annual Back-to-School Block Party!
8/16/23
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Wednesday, August 16th, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) attended the CREC (Capitol Region Education Council) Annual Back-to-School Block Party over at 111 Charter Oak Ave in Hartford.
I would like to thank CREC’s Communications Operations Coordinator, Glorimar Claudio, Family and Community Engagement Specialist, Roz Pace, Director of Communications, Community Relations & Community Education Services, Aura Alvarado, along with all staff and volunteers for putting together such a wonderful event!
Once again CREC put together more than 1,200 free backpacks filled with school supplies which were given out to children between the ages of 3 and 17.
This event continuously provides the Greater Hartford community the opportunity to come together and collaborate to help area children and families prepare for the start of the upcoming school year.
Finally, special thanks to my DRCT team of Steve Byers, Char Dornne Bussue, Maria Feliciano, Lena Esposito, and Cill Russo for their outstanding work at our booth.
DRCT Celebrates 18th Annual Taste of the Caribbean + Jerk Festival! 08/05/23
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Saturday, August 5th, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) attended the 18th Annual Taste of the Caribbean + Jerk Festival at the Riverfront Plaza in downtown Hartford, CT.
I would like to thank Executive Director, Leslie Perry of the Taste of the Caribbean, along with all of the Board Members and Volunteers who put together this fabulous festival!
I also would like to recognize my DRCT Community Engagement team of Stephen M. Byers, Cill Russo, Bonnie Clark, and Lena Esposito for the great work they put in at our booth.
This festival spotlighted the diversity, strength, and vibrancy that exists within our Caribbean community.
What a wonderful experience to share in our state!
DRCT Attends 8th Annual Hartford Latino Fest USA! 07/01/23
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Saturday, July 1st, Disability Rights CT (DRCT) took part in the 8th Annual Hartford Latino Fest USA at Dunkin Park in downtown Hartford. I would like to thank Vic Luna, CEO-President of Luna Entertainment Productions, LLC and Director of Latino Fest USA for providing yet another incredible festival. This multicultural celebration continues to grow each year. Over 5,000 attendees this past Saturday.
We would like to thank our DRCT volunteers: Siobhan Mclure Morgan and Brianna Vig, along with our PAC member, Lena Esposito, and Board of Directors member, Bonnie Clark for doing an amazing job overseeing our informational resource table and engaging with everyone who stopped by our booth. Outstanding work!
DRCT Takes Part in Juneteenth 2023 Festival in Enfield! 06/17/23
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Saturday June 17th, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) attended the Juneteenth 2023 Festival hosted by the Ujima African American Alliance at the Enfield Town Hall Green.
I would like to thank Chad Woodyard and Melissa Woodyard along with the Ujima African American Alliance for their hard work and dedication.
Once again, Ujima has taken the lead in providing an event that educates, elevates, and inspires our communities to work and build together.
DRCT Joins 3rd Thursday Street Festival in Willimantic! 06/15/23
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
In June, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) attended the 3rd Thursday Street Festival in Willimantic. This was the second year in a row that DRCT took part in this incredible festival while collaborating with Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR) Windham Recovery Community Center.
DRCT would like to thank the WRCC team of John Schwartz, Kelly Mills, Luz Cruz, Sara Lynn, and TJ Aitken.
This was a fun-filled evening that provided authentic connection between the Recovery and Disability communities.
DRCT INAUGURATES VOTING RIGHTS CLINIC AT mIDDLETOWN PRIDEFEST!
By Stephen Byers, Staff Attorney
DRCT is proud to have held its Voting Rights Clinics for Persons with Disabilities at the 2023 PrideFest celebration in Middletown CT. The purpose of the clinic was to encourage individuals to learn about their voting rights and obligations in order to vote in the State of Connecticut. 70 people sought out information at our clinic during the course of the day. Questions ranged from young people seeking to find out when they can register, and to seniors and disabled individuals inquiring on what the state must provide to ensure voting access. DRCT staff distributed a range of voting-related materials and assisted individuals who needed additional advice and counsel. Several township Voter Registrars stopped by to thank us for presenting a voting clinic aimed at expanding voting access to the disability community. DRCT attorneys Steve Byers and Jim Welsh staffed the Clinic booth for the event.
DRCT TAKES PART IN PRIDEFEST! 06/03/23
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Saturday, June 3rd Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) participated in the 5th Annual Middletown PrideFEST in downtown Middletown, CT.
I would like to thank Haley Stafford, Event Coordinator of Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce and all the volunteers who helped put together this incredible festival which included a Pride March, Pride Rally, Pride Showcase Concerts, and Tea Dance, along with an array of activities for all ages.
I also would like to thank my DRCT colleagues & volunteers: Stephen M. Byers, Cill Russo, Jim Welsh, Siobhan McClure Morgan, and Brianna Vig for all the hard work you provided at
Middletown PrideFEST. This was a great team effort!
This event was about unity, connection, and most importantly…PRIDE. When we embrace one another in the community, we not only show love and support but help provide a strong quality of life for everyone.
CT Family Support Network Annual Conference 05/11/2023
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Thursday, May 11th Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) attended Connecticut Family Support Network’s (CTFSN) Annual One Voice Conference in Haddam, CT.
This conference allowed DRCT, along with other community organizations, the opportunity to share our advocacy materials and network with parents and caregivers of individuals with disabilities.
The One Voice Conference also provided bi-lingual breakout sessions for all attendees on topics such as Inclusion and Equality, Health Habits for a Good Life, and a LifeCourse Good Life Group.
I would like to thank Assistant Executive Director, Adriana Ramirez and the entire CTFSN staff for putting together such an incredible and informative event.
ConnecticuT Town Clerks Association Conference 04/20/2023
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Thursday April 20, 2023, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) attended the CT Town Clerks Association Spring Conference at the Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale in New Haven, CT. This conference event provided DRCT with the opportunity to meet with town clerks around the state along with other non-profit organizations and state agencies.
At this conference DRCT was able to provide an array of information that included bi-lingual voting materials based on topics such as: Voting at a Polling Place, Voting by Mail, Mail-In Voter Registration Forms (Regular size and Large Print), Voter Registration Cards, and Vote Riders Cards. Other areas of focus by DRCT were in regard to education namely, Special Education Complaint Options, Special Education Potential Referrals, along with our Free Education Rights Clinic.
Special thanks to Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas for stopping by our table and speaking with us on voting accessibility. Disability Rights Connecticut will be partnering with the Secretary’s office and other community organizations for a Voting Rights Lunch & Learn event at the New London Senior Center later in May.
Epilepsy C.A.R.E. Day Conference in Rocky Hill, CT 01/28/2023
By Mike Whilby, Strategic Partnerships Manager
On Saturday January 28, 2023, Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) attended the Epilepsy C.A.R.E. Day Conference at the Sheraton Hartford South Hotel in Rocky Hill, CT. This conference included epilepsy resources for advocacy and education that support the community.
This forum included several speakers including, DRCT Senior Advocate Jennifer Jenkins, who provided a presentation on the understanding reasonable accommodations in employment under the American Disabilities Act (ADA)
DRCT would like to thank the Epilepsy Foundation Connecticut’s (EFCT) Events, Marketing, and Volunteer Coordinator Elizabeth Styblo, and the Director of Programs & Services Monica Anzelone, along with all of the community organizations in attendance.
This conference was very productive and educational and it shed light on EFCT’s dedication to improving the quality of life for people impacted by epilepsy and their loved ones. Thank you EFCT for providing DRCT with the opportunity to be a part of such an amazing event!
