Press Release: May 5, 2017

Getting any young person to focus on taking care of himself or herself is one of the great challenges of any parent and a big barrier for engagement in healthcare issues. At the upcoming youth summit, CT KASA attempts to breakdown these roadblocks with a discussion held during the Social Media Healthcare Transition Town Hall. “The Town Hall discussion will utilize non-traditional modes of communication such as a special set of visuals (designed to engage non-verbal participants) and social media through Twitter Tweet Chat and FB Live.” says Cirioli. “This will give us the ability to connect with other youth from all across the country, connect with national partners who are interested in this work and our moderator Derek Hall, Program Director, The Discovery Center is an expert at engaging youth in conversation.” “We want to emphasize that this is a summit for ALL youth” continues Lubogo “A young adult with or without a disability will find this day filled with relatable information.” The Town Hall is generously sponsored by the CT State Innovation Model Consumer Advisory Board as part of their community engagement activities. Also included in the 2nd Annual Building a Better Life: Youth Summit will be a series of inspirational speakers, including: Michael Scanlon, youth consultant with the CT Parent Advocacy Center (CPAC) tells the story of how he is building a great life despite having suffered a traumatic brain injury at 4 years old. Michael will lead a panel discussion with other youth who will showcase their success in projects they have embarked on after high school. Xavier Farrell a high school senior, excels at everything he does. Xavier stands out as a general education student who is passionate about making opportunities for everyone. He will share his vision of creating affordable and inclusive communities. Attorney Michael Gilberg, is an experienced Special Education and Disabilities lawyer who can share pertinent information about the important rights and services afforded to youth with disabilities. His discussion will also feature 2 young adults who have had success with higher education after high school. Close: The 2nd annual Youth Summit will be held MAY 13th, 2017 at the St. Thomas Seminary, 467 Bloomfield Ave, Bloomfield, CT 06002. Check-in begins at 9am and the day will run from 10:00am – 4:00pm. Breakfast, lunch and snacks will be provided. Please reserve your free ticket by contacting info@pathct.org The day is sponsored by; PATH Parent to Parent/Family Voices of CT, CT KASA, CT Council on Developmental Disabilities, CT University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Health Resources & Services Administration, Maternal & Child Health Bureau, CT Parent Advocacy Center, CT Dept. of Public Health, Title V Program, CT State Innovation Model Consumer Advisory Board.

 

Building A Great Life 2nd Annual Youth Summit

Bloomfield CT, May 5, 2017– This event is a one day summit designed for youth ages 13 to 26. Youth will learn how to advocate in school, the work place and how to navigate our complex healthcare system. They will hear from their peers on how to become a young entrepreneur, about working in the community and pursuing higher education. They will also have the opportunity to network and discuss life successes and challenges and how to build a great life! “These amazing young people are excited to convene a summit all of their own where they can learn and discuss issues that affect them. Our role as adults is to help facilitate and provide them with the tools to success. This youth summit is one such tool and with this group, the sky is the limit!!” — Co-Director Nanfi Lubogo We are incredibly grateful to all of our generous sponsors who see the potential of these incredible young people and were excited to support their vision of “Building a Great Life in spite of their “disabilities” — Co-Director Carmina Cirioli PATH Parent to Parent/Family Voices of Connecticut (PATH/FVCT) is a network of families providing informational and emotional support to others who have a child with developmental or health related needs. PATH/FVCT reaches out to help strengthen families coping with similar situations in Connecticut, and the organizations that serve them to reduce isolation, empower families as advocates for their children and reaffirm their values as parents and caregivers. If you would like more information about PATH/FVCT or CT KASA, please contact Nanfi Lubogo at 203- 234-9554 or email at info@pathct.org.