L.I.F.E., Inc., a not for profit organization, celebrated the 19-year anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 on July 25.
James Aberson, Chatham County ADA coordinator, was the guest speaker at this annual event. He pointed out that each and every person with a disability can use six simple steps to make the necessary changes in society by taking part in a grassroots effort to make change happen.
He explained that “grassroots” means that the local people are like the roots of a plant; roots sustain the plant for growth. People, with disabilities who know what change is needed at the local level, must plan and execute their efforts in a unified way so that the “tug of war” of change can happen.
Participants enjoyed barbecue chicken and beef, baked beans, cole slaw, tea and lemonade brought in from Sticky Fingers and a big sheet cake from Wal-Mart. The Antique Automobile Club of America also provided an antique car show.
L.I.F.E., Inc. serves 11 counties helping people with significant disabilities of all ages, regain their independence or become more independent by helping them set goals and helping them get the tools they need to accomplish their goals. Services offered are advocacy, independent living skills training and peer support and for anyone with or without a disability, information and referrals.
L.I.F.E. also offers an equipment loan closet and participates in a recycled medical equipment program called the STAR Network ReUse Program, a quarterly newsletter, a resource library, a peer support network, and a home modification program, a nursing home transition program, with an emphasis on consumer control.
L.I.F.E., works closely with The Statewide Independent Living Council and receives funding from various sources which include HUD, churches, U.S. Department of Education, the Department of Labor, the City of Savannah and works with various volunteer groups such as the GAP Ministries through the Effingham County United Way to build ramps and The Arc of Effingham summer camp known as Camp Hollywood.
L.I.F.E., Inc. also has an office in Rincon. Now located at 102020 Abercorn St. in Savannah. The coordinator there can be reached at 826-5300 Ext. 26 on Wednesday and Thursday.
