(MRC Staff at the Photo: Drew Ritter, MRC.)

On September 5 – 7, 2014, the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) exhibited at the Abilities Expo at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.  More than than merely promoting our latest brochures and fact-sheets, this Expo was an opportunity to celebrate an intensity for life and to connect a community of people to mentors, peers, and resources.

This year, the Expo brought together disability related human services, assistive technology organizations, mobility device companies, and social/interest groups into one location for people throughout the New England region to learn more about resources available to them, their loved ones, and/or those they provide personal care assistance.

MRC Commissioner Charles Carr joined staff at the MRC and MassMatch booths, where he immediately fielded questions regarding the agency and services. He met a young woman, Julia, with her family from north of Boston. Already familiar with MRC vocational and transition-aged youth services, Julia got  a chance one-on-one with Commissioner Carr.

(Left to Right: Commissioner Carr with Julia. Photo: Drew Ritter, MRC.)

The two spoke about the adversities and possibilities of blooming from a child with a disability to an adult, the importance of establishing a sense of independence, and the significance of “living” a robust life. Commissioner Carr shared advice and the importance mental courage, determination, and strength in pursing personal goals. He shared his personal story of attending post-secondary school to propel his rewarding career in the community, and about his own experience receiving guidance and services from the MRC as a consumer. Taking these opportunities ultimately came  full circle in 2007 when he was appointed the Commissioner of the very agency from which he once received services.

The rewards and challenges of self-advocating can be an empowering experience.

(Photo: Drew Ritter, MRC)

These words offered by Commissioner Carr were echoed by the rolling display of the ADA Legacy Tour bus and the film, “Great Fight for Disability Right.” The ADA Legacy Tour project was also at the Expo to celebrate, educate, and preserve the long journey and contributions of people with disabilities, from the Disability Rights Movement to the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA).

This year’s ADA Legacy Tour served as an important reminder there is still unfinished work and initiatives yet to be started, but  also a wide sea of great leaders and advocates who will continue supporting independence, equality, and inclusion for the next generation.

Next year on July 26, 2015, we will celebrate for the 25th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. We hope to see you there!

(Photo: Drew Ritter, MRC)

About the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission:

The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) provides comprehensive services to people with disabilities that maximizes their quality of life and economic self-sufficiency in the community. To learn about the MRC, please visit www.mass.gov/mrc.