April 2025

D'Arcy Robb, GCDD Executive DirectorEverything, everywhere, all at once. 

I have never seen the movie before, but that’s how I have been feeling. 

Winter is typically our busiest season at the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD). Public policy is a big part of our work, and during Georgia’s 40-day legislative session this year, we are all in and all over the Gold Dome. I love it, and I am so proud of our community’s advocacy work and accomplishments, but it is an intense time. 

And this year, the federal landscape is unprecedented. Under President Trump and the 119th Congress, major changes are in play that will make significant impacts on Georgians with developmental disabilities (DD) and their families. You can check out this article for the details on Medicaid, the federal Department of Education, and the Section 504 Lawsuit. We’re working hard at GCDD to stay on top of the latest developments and to keep you informed. You can also get the latest updates and information by following GCDD on our social media channels. 

GCDD is currently in the planning process for our Five-Year Strategic Plan. This is important because it will guide GCDD’s work from 2027 to 2031. To make sure our work is impactful, we need to know what our community needs. Please take our survey and share it with your family and friends.

To complete the GCDD Survey, click the link below:

GCDD Five-Year Strategic Plan Survey

Did I mention that I love my job? I do. These days seem uncertain and there is a lot going on. I think the only way to get through these times is to get through together.

The GCDD staff frequently refer to each other as ‘team’, because we are. There is no way we could handle this volume of work without collaborating and working together. And, giving each other the grace to take a breather when we need it. I believe a million percent that makes us better and happier as people, and actually allows us to do our best work. 

Our team only begins with the staff. We could not do the work we do without our powerhouse Council members. Our members review, evaluate, and select our project grantees. They steer our policy agenda, come to the Capitol to testify and assume leading roles during Advocacy Days and at press conferences. They set aside time every three months to engage in day and a half long meetings, keep up with regular and ad-hoc committee work in the interim, and jump into last minute meetings as needed. Additionally, multiple Council members have said to us, “Tell me if there’s anything I can do” – and when we identify a need, they deliver.

I am so grateful for our Council members, their passion and their leadership. And from now on, these monthly “Letters from Leadership” will be shared between the members and me. 

But our community’s leaders and our team extend well beyond our members. Our full power is in the community – you. 

I think one of the most important things we do well as an agency is to stay heavily engaged with the members of our community, giving you information and opportunities for action and involvement. Thank you so much for participating in projects, coming down to the capitol, jumping on advocacy alerts, attending our events, and giving us feedback.

If you are reading this and thinking, “But I don’t do all those things” – you definitely don’t have to do everything. I believe you know where you can contribute and play your part alongside GCDD in our work during this season of your life. It could be calling your Congressperson when you see an advocacy alert. It could be participating in one of GCDD’s projects, or teaching a group of friends what resources are available in your community, or befriending your local legislator. The list of possibilities is endless, but it’s all needed and valuable, and it all builds into impact.

I hope you find the information in this issue of Making a Difference valuable, that it motivates you to act.

D’Arcy Robb
Executive Director
GCDD

Competitive integrated employment (CIE), defined in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, is a term often used when talking about equal employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). But what does CIE actually look like?

CIE means jobs where people with and without disabilities work together, earn fair wages, and have equal opportunities to advance. CIE recognizes that people with disabilities bring value to the workforce. 

IPSE Programs: A Building Block for CIE

What systems are built to support CIE in Georgia? Inclusive Post-secondary Education (IPSE) programs are one way. These programs, which are housed in select Georgia universities and colleges, equip students with intellectual disabilities (ID) with the skills for independent living and employment, while also offering IPSE students the full college experience alongside their peers and students who do not have disabilities. There are currently ten IPSE programs in Georgia, including the University of Georgia’s (UGA) Destination Dawgs, Georgia State University’s Inclusive Digital Expression and Literacy (IDEAL) program, and the Georgia Institute of Technology’s (Georgia Tech) Expanding Career, Education, and Leadership Opportunities (EXCEL) program.

Marnie Harris is using her education and passion to create a more inclusive and accessible world. Harris, who is the Director of Business and Marketing Strategy at Pavilion Development Company, helped to develop the EXCEL program at Georgia Tech while she was studying to be a biomedical engineer. Through her current position, she is helping to create employment opportunities in hospitality for people with I/DD. 

“When developing EXCEL, we weren’t just trying to postpone a cliff,” said Harris, referring to the school-to-couch pipeline. “The curriculum needed to center around meaningful employment outcomes, just like any other college degree.”

But IPSE alone isn’t enough; the workforce still presents barriers for people with I/DD. Even with an IPSE certificate, career opportunities can be challenging to find for people with I/DD. That’s why Harris shifted to focus on the other half of the answer: the business community. 

“There are lots of nonprofits that fill needs,” Harris said, “But the business community is an opportunity. You can still be outcome-driven without treating people like charity.”

Bridging Education to Employment Opportunities

The Shepherd Hotel in Clemson, SC is a shining example of building the bridge from education to employment. Williams helped shape the hotel’s business strategy, built with I/DD inclusion at the foundation. The Shepherd employs people with I/DD in customer-facing roles across all departments. Its goal is for every patron to have a positive interaction with one of those staff members.    

Shepherd Manager in Development Ansley Minor sees the impact daily. “Guests return again and again because of the connections they make here,” she said. “People walk away changed.” 

“Hospitality is an easy sell,” Harris added. “People want to feel something. When a guest feels impacted when they leave, they go back and tell their friends. That’s how you retain customers.” 

The Shepherd hires, trains, promotes, and holds their employees with I/DD to the same high standards as everyone else. 

Helping People with I/DD to Fulfil their Dreams

Ross Hicks, a Shepherd Employee from Alpharetta, GA, said, “We can do anything that anyone else can do. It just might take us a little longer, so patience is important.” 

Hicks continued, “People with DD make workplaces better. We will learn from working there, and people will learn from us.” Hicks is also a student at ClemsonLIFE.

Through a partnership with the ClemsonLIFE IPSE program, The Shepherd offers internship opportunities that often lead to full-time jobs for people with I/DD. These internships aren’t just resume-builders; they’re how students build networks, gain references, and land jobs. They create a launchpad for long-term career opportunities. 

In the fall, Hicks will start ClemsonLIFE’s two-year Hospitality Certificate Program to further prepare him for a career in the hotel industry. 

“It’s always been my dream to work in a hotel, and this program will help me fulfill my dreams,” said Hicks. “Hopefully I can be a hotel manager one day.”

This example of education-to-employment practiced at ClemsonLIFE demonstrates that CIE is possible. 

“I feel successful at The Shepherd Hotel, and I am treated as an equal. I feel like I belong,” said Hicks. 

IPSE programs help students build practical skills. “They’re important for credentials,” Harris explained. “And yet so many jobs are found through networking and relationships.” 

Until those networks include people with I/DD, equity in the workplace will not happen. 

“We’re now seeing a lot of IPSE programs flip to different internships every semester, to expand the people that students meet,” said Harris. 

Expanding Opportunities and the Future of CIE

What is Harris’ plan moving forward? She would like to have a Shepherd Hotel on every IPSE campus in Georgia. Additionally, she explained that IPSE and hospitality are the perfect match. She feels IPSE students will be able to graduate with hands-on experience, professional connections, and a clear path to employment. 

“We would love to expand to a Georgia college,” said Harris, “especially with strong IPSE programs already in place in Atlanta and Athens. Hotel employees can work and live in the same place where they had their first independent living experience.” 

Harris’ vision for the future is a business world that finds creative ways to harness the value of people with I/DD. When that happens, everyone wins – individuals, businesses, and the broader economy. 

For more information about competitive integrated employment in Georgia visit Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency - Supported Employment.

For more information about Georgia IPSE programs visit GAIPSEC.

D'Arcy Robb, GCDD Executive DirectorIf I can give you one piece of advocacy advice for 2025, it’s get to know your Congressperson. 

As I write these words, a flurry of activity is going on in Washington, DC. President Trump and the 119th Congress have the potential to make major changes to our society and life for Georgians with disabilities and their families. Some of the most important areas of potential change are Medicaid and the federal Department of Education. 

Medicaid

Medicaid is often referred to as “the lifeline” for people with disabilities. Not only does Medicaid provide medical care, it also provides critical services and supports that allow Georgians with disabilities to live in their homes and communities instead of institutions. That includes funding for Katie Beckett, the NOW/COMP waiver, and the ICWP waiver. 

According to Erin Prangley of the National Association on Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD), "In Georgia, 3 out of 10 people with disabilities are on Medicaid, and the federal government pays 66% of the cost of traditional Medicaid.

If enacted, these cuts could result in reduced funding for Home and Community Based Services (HCBS), forcing more individuals into costly institutional settings."

As of mid-March, the federal House has released a budget blueprint. The Medicaid part of the budget falls under the House Energy and Commerce Committee. That committee has been charged with cutting $880 billion from this budget area over the next 10 years. 

The messages we are hearing from Congress are that the intention is not to cut Medicaid benefits or to hurt people with developmental disabilities. But at the time of this writing, the details of any cuts are still unclear. According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, it’s not possible to cut $880 billion from this area of the budget without making cuts to Medicaid. Be sure to follow GCDD’s social media for ongoing updates. 

Here’s where you come in. Your member of Congress needs to hear from you ASAP about why Medicaid is important in your life and the lives of people you care about. The best way to do this is with an in-person visit, and the second-best way is a phone call. You don’t need to hop on a plane to see your members – they all spend time at home and have local staff to meet with you. If your Representative supports Medicaid cuts, don’t be afraid to ask them for the math – how do they suggest cutting $880 billion in this budget area without hurting people on Medicaid?

Federal Department of Education (DOE)

Another big issue to raise with your Congressional Representative is the importance of the work done by the federal Department of Education for students with disabilities. The federal DOE regulates the implementation of IDEA, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Its Office for Civil Rights (OCR) enforces civil rights laws in schools, which protect all students, including students with disabilities, from discrimination. 

On March 11, 2025, 1,300 people at the Department of Education (DOE) lost their jobs. On Thursday, March 20, 2025, the White House released an Executive Order that called for the dismantling of the Department of Education. 

People are guessing that some of the DOE’s work might be given to other parts of the federal government. The Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon, said that IDEA (the special education law) could be moved to the Department of Health and Human Services.

“Education is primarily managed by states, and federal oversight ensures that students with disabilities receive appropriate support and accommodations,” said Prangley. “Historically, states have struggled to provide sufficient support for disabled students, and with this order, it brings up serious concerns about their ability to meet the needs of these children without strong federal oversight.”

When you reach out to your Congressperson, make sure they know how you feel about IDEA and the importance of civil rights protections for students with disabilities. Ask them what they are doing now, and what they will commit to doing, to make sure that all students receive a free and appropriate public education. 

Section 504 Lawsuit

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal civil rights law that protects people with disabilities of all ages from discrimination in programs and activities that receive federal funding. Section 504 ensures equal access, accommodations, and opportunities for full participation in public schools, hospitals, public housing, and transportation systems. 

In the fall of 2024, Georgia’s Attorney General signed onto a lawsuit called Texas v. Becerra (https://bit.ly/504GALawsuit). The idea for the lawsuit began over language about gender dysphoria, but the actual lawsuit is much broader than that. Count 3 of the lawsuit argues that Section 504 is unconstitutional. It also disputes the Olmstead case, which upheld the right of people with mental disabilities to live outside institutions. 

Attorney General Chris Carr and other state Attorneys General have created a status report to the Judge that they do not want to end Section 504. However, as of mid-March, the lawsuit's language has not been changed, and it still argues that Section 504 is unconstitutional. For this to change, the lawsuit must be amended or withdrawn. 

You can reach out to the Attorney General’s office to share your thoughts about the Section 504 Lawsuit at (404) 458-3600 or email .

This article will be added once Georgia completes its Legislative Session.

Zoe-Rebekah Bostic from Grovetown, GA Speaks about Her Goals and How She is Engaged in Her Community

My name is Zoe-Rebekah Bostic, and I am an Autism Champion. I am more than my disability. I am a student, daughter, sister, content creator, cheerleader, soon-to-be published author, and a dedicated member of my community. I want to remind readers that you can do it. Don’t let anyone tell you that you’re not good enough. People with disabilities matter, we have a voice in this world, and we have the power to make a difference.

I am still in high school and will graduate in May 2027 and I'm really excited about it. After high school, I plan on attending one of Georgia’s Inclusive Post Secondary Education (IPSE) programs. I want to explore other IPSE programs before making my final decision. So far, I’ve visited the University of Georgia’s (UGA) Destination Dawgs IPSE Program and three other IPSE programs to learn more about their programs to see if they’re a good fit for me. My mom and I plan to visit more colleges to find the best option for me. My goal is to be a teacher. I hope to become a Special Education teacher, just like my favorite teacher, Mrs. Hinds.

I am demonstrating independence and self-advocacy in my life today. I make my own decisions about what’s best for me, such as choosing where I want to go to college and what I want to study. I also choose what type of activities I want to participate in. I also talk to other students about supported decision-making and the importance of using their voices. I also volunteer and participate in school activities to show others that they can achieve their goals while also working to make the world a more inclusive place. 

Additionally, I am an active member of my community. I volunteer with Lasagna Love, where I make lasagna for families each month. I also serve as an usher and participate in the Women’s Ministry at my church. At school, I’m involved in the Buddy Club and Student Council as a youth advocate. As a content creator, I share my personal story to inspire others and show them that they can achieve anything they set their minds to.

My goals and dreams include learning how to drive so I can drive independently to school. I also plan to go to college to become a teacher, get married, and have children. I hope to live next door to my mom so she can help watch my children when I go to work, and we can still spend time together because we’re best friends.

Hobbies and awards I have recently been recognized for include learning how to sew. I also have a passion for drawing and dancing and enjoy cheerleading, bowling, and solving my Rubik’s Cube. I am part of a competitive cheer squad, and we are national champions. I am also a cheerleader for my school football team and a Special Olympics athlete. In my spare time, I compete in pageants to inspire others who are like me. I am proud to have been named 4-H Volunteer of the Year for two years in a row. I love helping others and advocating for a world where all abilities are celebrated and making the world more inclusive.

In addition to my family, the people who support me in my community include my Cheerleading “Squad,” which includes my school supporters, IEP team, teachers, tutor, and therapists – my private speech and occupational therapist. They help me work toward my academic and independent living goals. I have an incredible team of medical doctors who support me and ensure I receive the best medical care. I cannot forget about my dentist and her team. They are the best and they keep my teeth pearly white. I also have an amazing team at my local YMCA who support my physical goals and are teaching me how to swim. My church family plays a big role in my spiritual growth, and my cheer sisters help me learn teamwork.

Follow me on Instagram to see what I am up to at @zoetheautismdiva.

The Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD) continues to seek public input for its 2027-2031 Five-Year Strategic Plan project. Information gathered from stakeholders across the state will help GCDD form a strategic plan to create systems change for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families. The final plan will guide projects that help the Council influence public policy at both state and federal levels, support capacity building through technical assistance and grants, facilitate discussions on creating change, and promote public awareness of the needs of the disability community. 

To ensure the plan reflects the needs and priorities of the community, GCDD is collecting information from Georgians through an online survey. Individuals with I/DD, their families, caregivers, and community advocates are encouraged to take the survey. Once you have completed the survey, please share it with others.

The survey, available in both English and Spanish, includes multiple-choice questions and opportunities for more in-depth responses, taking approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. To complete the survey, click one of the following links below:

• English: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/G8WYS8J
• Spanish: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GH3C2LY

By engaging with the community and incorporating their feedback, GCDD’s goal is to ensure that individuals with I/DD are interdependent, included in their communities, and self-determined in their lives. For more information, visit our website.

Find out what's happening during April! Here are some events that may be of interest to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

My Tech for All Technology Training – Cooking Tips and Recipes Online

April 3, 2025 from 10:00am - 11:30am

Cooking apps are a tool for improving eating habits. They provide access to recipes, meal planning, and personalized help. Learn how cooking apps can help you eat better with easy recipes, personalized advice, step-by-step help, tracking your portions, and trying new things. 

Register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAlc-uuqTgpHtQkLN0MZ7YcwECfhaO9J5gI#/registration 

Find more upcoming webinars: https://mytechforall.com/georgia/  

Uniting for Change: Community Strong

April 7, 21, & 28, 2025 from 4:00pm – 5:00pm

Community Strong, led by self-advocates for self-advocates, is a weekly Zoom gathering about having fun and spending time with each other!

Register here: https://www.uniting4change.org/event-details/community-strong-2025-04-07-16-00 

Find more upcoming gatherings here: https://www.uniting4change.org/calendar

FOCUS of Georgia: Sip and Share Virtual Meet-up

April 11, 2025 from 8:00pm to 9:00pm

Support Groups, also called Share Groups, are the backbone of FOCUS, the first program ever offered. Share Groups meet monthly (September to May) in several different locations around metro Atlanta so parents can meet other parents and share tips, fears, and joys. Parent volunteers facilitate the groups, keeping them positive, constructive, and uplifting. This is a virtual share group and conducted through Zoom. 

To attend, you must be a parent/caregiver of a child/young adult with a physical and/or developmental disability, including rare genetic syndromes, cerebral palsy, autism, and Down syndrome. Learn more at https://focus-ga.org/event/sip-share-group-3/2025-04-11/.

On the day the Share Group meets, login using this Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82248779045?pwd=eTRDdSsxZEhLR3k3dERzb1FUdkI1Zz09#success 

Uniting for Change: Statewide Area Network Meeting 

April 22, 2025, 10:00am – 12:00 pm via Zoom

Read the announcement: https://conta.cc/4kWw7hP

Register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/U59H9zsER9eDeu4Lw0vwkw

Parent 2 Parent: Wills and Trusts

April 29, 2025, 6:30pm – 7:30pm via Zoom

Planning for the future of your child with a disability can feel overwhelming. Join this meeting to learn how to protect benefits, ensure financial security, and create a plan.

To register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_fAegCeNyTi-YDfrI-73WQw#/registration 

Questions? Contact Sitara Nayak at or 800-229-2038.