CDCAN DISABILITY
RIGHTS NEWS REPORT
California
Disability Community Action Network
California
Disability Community Action Network
Advocacy Without
Borders: One Community
News Impacting People With
Disabilities, Mental Health Needs, Seniors & others, including
Asian Pacific Islanders, Latinos, African Americans communities across
California and beyond
Goes out to over 45,000 people,
organizations, policy makers across California
REPLY TO: MARTY OMOTO - martyomoto@rcip.com
website: www.cdcan.us
REPORT #079-2008 - APRIL
19, 2008 - SATURDAY
Remembering What Advocacy Means
CELEBRATION OF LIFE OF BETTY BACON
SUNDAY - APRIL 20TH, 2 PM - SAN DIEGO
Respected & Loved Advocate Passed Away Feb
24th - Friends and Advocates Across California Pay Tribute
SACRAMENTO (CDCAN) -
A celebration of the life of Betty Bacon, a widely admired and loved San
Diego advocate for disability rights who believed that "...we must
work toward a world and a community that includes us all and values our
differences," is scheduled tomorrow, April 20, 2008
(Sunday) at 2:00 PM at the Town and Country Resort and Convention Center
in the Mission Valley area of San Diego.
[Note from Marty Omoto,
CDCAN: this report includes tributes made by postings by Betty Bacon's
friends. I included all of the complete and unedited postings here
(with some additional identification information or spelling
corrections) which took time to copy and format. Apologies for those
people who don't like long reports - but the tributes are touching and
meaningful, because we need to remember what a person's life meant and
means. People should read these tributes because it helps to remember
what advocacy is all about, what a difference one life can make on so
many others and that her life and work mattered. She is and will
always be remembered for that. She will also be remembered because
Betty was a remarkable, caring, decent and good person who was and will
always be loved by her family and friends. Again - apologies for the
long report - but Betty's work and legacy deserves an even longer tribute
than I can provide here.]
Address of Large Resort Hotel
The address to the
large resort and convention center is 500 Hotel Circle North (at
Fashion Valley Road), San Diego, CA 92108. The phone number to
the resort for general information about the resort is (619) 291-7131
and the website is www.towncountry.com for
help in getting directions to the location
Bacon passed away
after a brief illness (described by a person close to Bacon as
complications resulting from an infection) at age 61, on February
24, 2008, Sunday. See previous CDCAN Report #43-2008 on the
CDCAN website at www.cdcan.us
for other details.
Bacon Remembered for Her
"Remarkable Life"
Bacon [pictured above left in an undated
photo from San Diego State University] was remembered by advocates
and friends as a "stellar warrior" for disability rights who
led a "remarkable life" and was a mentor to thousands of
students with disabilities over the years.
"Her efforts to
remove barriers, both physical and attitudinal, for persons with
disabilities have brought lasting results. The San Diego State
University campus and the larger San Diego community are more
accessible, thanks to her personal efforts and her ability to mobilize
and motivate others" in a tribute posted by the San Diego State
University on its website.
She was most recently active in the
San Diego Disability Action Coalition, and a leader of the San Diego
chapter of Californians for Disability Rights, and the San Diego
Chapter of Democrats with Disabilities. She was in Sacramento
last year chairing a Californians for Disability Rights forum on the
issue of accessible parking for people with disabilities and
seniors.
Laura Williams, statewide president
of Californians for Disability Rights said at the time of
Bacon's death that she was saddened by the news and remembered that
"...Betty served our community well for many years in the
disabled student services program. She has been a member of
CDR [Californians for Disability Rights] for many years, and
served CDR and our community with dedication and strong
advocacy. She will be missed by friends, family and fellow
advocates".
Served As Director of
Disabled Student Services at San Diego State University
Bacon, who retired in November 2004,
was the longtime director of Disabled Student Services at San
Diego State University and one of the founders of the Community
Service Center for the Disabled, the San Diego independent living
center now named Access to Independence.
She served as the chair of the
California State University Disabled Students Services Directors,
and was a member of the California State University Chancellor’s
Office Advisory Committee on Services for Students with Disabilities,
and on a similar committee on Services for Faculty and Staff with
Disabilities.
Bacon served as the
Governor's appointee to the California Department of
Rehabilitation Statewide Advisory Committee, and served as an advisor
to the Office of the State Architect on code revisions. She also
served as an executive committee member of the California Association
of Postsecondary Education and Disability (CAPED) and a member of the
national Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD).
Bacon was an executive committee
member of the California Association of Postsecondary Education and
Disability (CAPED) and a member of the national Association on Higher
Education and Disability (AHEAD). She was chosen as a delegate to the
White House Conference on the Handicapped and a participant in the
President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped.
Active In Local and State
Disability Rights Issues
Locally Bacon was a longtime
activist on making San Diego more accessible to people with
disabilities and seniors. She served on the Citizens Review Committee
on Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA ) for the City of San Diego.
She was a member of the
Accessibility Advisory Committee to the Port of San Diego, and a
program evaluator at San Diego City College and several other
community colleges, worked with the San Diego Disability Services
Program, What's Next? (a mentoring program for high school students
and young adults with disabilities) and both the San Diego City
Council offices and San Diego County Supervisors offices on various
issues.
She was also active on different
committees dealing with affordable and accessible housing and public
transportation, including fighting to make the San Diego trolleys
accessible. Most recently she chaired a statewide committee for
Californians for Disability Rights to look at the issue of accessible
parking places for persons with disabilities and seniors, holding a
forum and hearing in Sacramento last May.
She participated in several other
statewide events, including CDCAN (California Disability Community
Action Network) townhall telemeetings in recent years that focused on
accessible transportation, and housing, and also access rights.
2 Sisters and 3 Brothers Among
Family Who Survive Her Passing
Bacon is survived by her twin sister, Ellen Guthrie, another sister Nancy Rothel, and brothers Chuck Bacon, Frank Bacon, and Jim Chandler, niece Laura Wiley, sisters-in-law and also brothers-in-law. Her parents, Alfons and Dorothy Bacon died before her.
Bacon is survived by her twin sister, Ellen Guthrie, another sister Nancy Rothel, and brothers Chuck Bacon, Frank Bacon, and Jim Chandler, niece Laura Wiley, sisters-in-law and also brothers-in-law. Her parents, Alfons and Dorothy Bacon died before her.
She is also survived by her partner and
friend, Michael Jablonski of Chula Vista, who wrote "Betty
is my confidant, my best friend, my life coach, my soul mate, and the
love of my life. She helped mold me into a better person. Betty
is someone that everybody loved, and everybody wanted to work
with,,,her love of life and her dedication to correcting wrongs and
making things right will continue to live on through everybody that
ever had the honor and privilege to meet, work with, or know
her."
"She will be greatly missed, but she will never be forgotten. Her spirit will continue to guide us in the future, and when we are stumped, we will all ask ourselves, "What would Betty have done?" I'll love you forever Baby!" Jablonski wrote in his tribute to Bacon.
"She will be greatly missed, but she will never be forgotten. Her spirit will continue to guide us in the future, and when we are stumped, we will all ask ourselves, "What would Betty have done?" I'll love you forever Baby!" Jablonski wrote in his tribute to Bacon.
Bacon's Death Follows Passing
of Two Other San Diego Advocates During Past Year
Bacon's death follows the passing of
at least two other San Diego disability and senior rights advocates
in the past year.
Beverly Walker, a local San Diego
disability rights activist who fought for access for persons with
disabilities, passed away due to natural causes just a few weeks
earlier, on February 3, 2008. Her passing saddened friends and
advocates in San Diego. Memorial services are still pending.
Last year on February 28, 2007,
another prominent disability rights advocate from the San
Diego area, Noel Neudeck, who was the president and founder of
Wheelchair Access Now Today, passed away at Sharp Grossmont Hospital
in San Diego from complications of a heart attack.
His death shocked and saddened
friends and advocates in San Diego and across the State.
Ironically, Betty Bacon had paid tribute then to Neudeck's work in a
San Diego Union article about Neudeck's passing, saying that
"you would see Noel sitting up front at city council meetings
all the time, keeping an eye on things. Noel tried to be a
watchdog for the disabled community.". The article was
published on March 24, 2007, just 11 months before her own passing.
San Diego Advocate Pays
Tribute to A "Remarkable Life"
Alisa Shuman, on behalf of the San
Diego Chapter of Californians for Disability Rights, wrote
a touching tribute saying that Bacon's death had thrown her into
a state of "...total shock and tremendous sadness. Betty
Bacon was a woman of true honor. Betty was my dear friend,
my confidant, my mentor, and was a positive role model for all persons
with disabilities."
"I had the honor to know and
admire Betty for 29 years. She was a tremendous and untiring fighter
for disability rights...I first met Betty, when my family moved from
Michigan to California in 1976, three years later, Betty was the first
person my mother and I met at San Diego State University at the
Disabled Student Services office. She welcomed us with open arms
and helped me in numerous ways to get accustomed to San Diego State
University. From that moment on she became my close friend and
she mentored me, as a student, as a woman, as a mother and as a
disability rights leader," Shuman wrote in tribute adding
that "...Betty was an extremely kind and intelligent woman
who was always supportive when she needed to be or direct when she
needed to be, and even confrontational when she needed to be. She had
an great ability of analyzing a situation from all angles, always
questioning and examining all the possibilities in any given
situation. In looking back over all of the years that I have
known Betty as a close friend I think the qualities that she had that
I most admired about her were, her leadership skills and ability, her
sense of humor, her diligence, her honesty, her deep belief that
anything was possible, and her commitment to do what was right.
I truly loved Betty as a long term and close friend."
Shuman closed with her tribute writing
that:
"My life was deeply
touched and impacted by knowing Betty and there are not enough words
in the English language to describe how much I will miss her. In
knowing and remembering Betty I feel that as difficult as it will be
to carry on without her, I believe that she would want us to celebrate
her live as she lived it, because she really lived a remarkable life! I
truly will miss Betty and her memory will always be in my heart
forever. "
She urged fellow advocates to remember
Bacon's life by joining "together and do something great in
her memory."
Statewide Advocates Mourn
Passing of "Stellar Warrior" for Disability Rights
Other tributes from across California from advocates and friends of Bacon upon learning of her passing in February:
Other tributes from across California from advocates and friends of Bacon upon learning of her passing in February:
"We have lost an amazing
advocate," HolLynn D'Lil, a longtime disability rights
advocate commented, saying that "Betty was a stellar warrior
in the disability civil rights movement. Her tact, her acumen,
her constant poise will be greatly missed. And, besides that,
she was a wonderful friend, an amazing woman and just so much darn fun
to be with. I am so sorry to hear this news."
Michelle Douglas, commenting for the
San Diego Disability Action Coalition which Bacon was a active member
called her a "towering advocate" and that
"...everybody knows Betty as a tireless fighter for architectural
accessibility, access to public transportation and employment...
Betty went toe-to-toe with the oil industry to make gas pumps
accessible, with the housing industry over universal design, MTS on
making the trolleys accessible, and the Mayor’s Office on creating
and sustaining a disability services position at City Hall. We
will miss her passion, her tenacity, her wisdom and counsel
terribly."
Ruthee Goldkorn, a disability
rights advocate, mourned Bacon's death, saying "... It
is a terrible loss for everyone. San Diego lost a friend and the
disability community lost a voice, CDR lost a friend and a voice,
California lost a friend and a voice. We all grieve together and
we will all share this loss as a family."
Jean Riker, a disability rights advocate in Sacramento expressed shock and dismay at Bacon's passing, saying that people with disabilities and seniors would miss her leadership. Riker, a cancer survivor, said she last saw Bacon in Sacramento in May of lastyear, and could not believe the news of her passing.
Francie Moeller, a disability rights
and Democratic Party activist said the disability community
"lost not just a leader for [the] disabled" but also a
leader to "...the many students who were inspired by this
wonderful woman every day. She challenged your thinking to new levels,
her knowledge of history was wonderful and will truly be a loss
to us all."
The following tributes come from postings made
on the San Diego Union's "Legacy" site (see below for link)
listed in order of most recent posting to oldest:
Mike Cheney of Escondido, California (April 18, 2008): "Betty was a good friend. She was always inspirational, positive, and wouldn’t give up on anybody. She kept her Gremlin for way too long, and I had to keep it running for her. Not because she did not want a new car, but because she could not give up on her old friend (the car). I will remember her."
Barby McKown of Sarasota, Florida (April 14, 2008):
"We certainly do live in a better place thanks to all that Betty
has done in this world. What a tribute to her. It was great to see her
at our SHS reunion in 2005. Thoughts and prayers to her family."
Charly of San Diego (April 5, 2008): "As I
read the words in this guest book it's obvious that Betty Bacon
touched many lives and was loved by all who knew her. The numerous
sentiments expressed here attest to her exceptional abilities and her
humanity.
I can relate to the loss her friends feel because even though I
only met her once--and spoke with her a couple of times on the
phone--I miss her to an extent that is unusual for someone whom I knew
so little and so briefly.
She passed away too quickly for most of her good friends to say
"good bye".
She passed away too quickly for me to have said a genuine
"hello".
I never really got to know Betty but during the few hours of our
acquaintance I experienced her humor, her wit and her wisdom.
She was the sort of woman who could make lemonade from lemons and
turn a stumbling block into a stepping stone. She could give courage
because she had courage.
She could give love because she possessed love.
She left fond footprints on the souls of her friends which can
never be erased.
“Congratulations, Betty! This world is a better place because you were in it. Thank you so much for your work, your talent for listening, your creative solutions, and your ability to persuade. Thanks most of all for your love. We are grateful and we will remember.”
“Congratulations, Betty! This world is a better place because you were in it. Thank you so much for your work, your talent for listening, your creative solutions, and your ability to persuade. Thanks most of all for your love. We are grateful and we will remember.”
HJ Desy of San Diego, California (April 5, 2008): "Our
family moved in next door to Betty in 1986, and we've been friends as
well as neighbors since. She's watched our two kids (Robbie and Sarah)
grow up, and we all have had the gift of knowing her. We would
usually all walk next door for Betty's famous New Year's Eve parties
(which was also her birthday) and hang out with so many really neat
people that are her friends.
We're sad that we all lost such a beautiful friend, so full of
gentleness, humanity and love.
We feel special to have known her."
Mark Matsui of Long Beach, California wrote on April 4, 2008:
"Betty made a difference in the lives of so many people
including my own. Her spirit lives on in all of us as we continue our
work guided by her teachings and contributions to our society. I will
miss my old friend."
Madeline Salocks of Lafayette, California (March 30, 2008):
"I consider it the greatest privilege to have had Betty as a
cousin and a friend, and will always treasure the memories of times we
spent together. I don’t think I have known anyone more gentle
and gracious with at the same time such strength and determination,
and it’s impossible to know how many lives were and will continue to
be made better because of her. And yet since she was so modest about
her accomplishments, I didn’t actually know the complete extent
until reading this obituary.
Even in the course of the most casual conversation, Betty invariably had something wise to offer and inspire, and I always came away feeling uplifted in some way. It’s difficult to find adequate words for this loss."
Even in the course of the most casual conversation, Betty invariably had something wise to offer and inspire, and I always came away feeling uplifted in some way. It’s difficult to find adequate words for this loss."
Kim Bartlett of Anahiem, California wrote (March 28, 2008):
"I was deeply saddened to hear of Betty's passing. Like many
others I knew Betty through my work with CSCD and later with the CSU
system. Betty constantly amazed me with her knowledge of the issues
and her seemingless boundless energy. She left a mark on this world
that will have an impact for generations. My condolences to her family
and friends."
Kea Herron of Tallahassee, Florida (March 27, 2008):
"I was fortunate to meet Betty when she was visiting her sister,
Ellen, and Ellen's husband Scott, in Tallahassee, summer of 2005.
Ellen and Scott are my dear friends and neighbors. That evening, they
spontaneously invited me to join them for dinner to celebrate Stephen
Best, my Life-Sweetheart, who had just died suddenly a few days
earlier.
Betty make a mark on me that night, gently appeasing my grief. Her
loving concern and warmth, just like her sister's, helped me cope for
one more day, and then another, and then another.
Thanks to this event, my sweet San Diego friend, Aissa, in great
need of emotional support and friendship at that time, was able to
meet Betty. Betty's reaching out to Aissa, and allowing Aissa to lend
a bit of a hand to her, was a great gift to my friend Aissa, and
therefore another huge gift to me. I see through the obituaries and
the guest book entries that Betty's love, generosity, creativity, and
persistence have radiated like sunshine throughout and beyond San
Diego, and will continue to affect people most marvelously and
indefinitely. I am sorry she is gone but grateful she has been
here!"
Alice Reed Lanford of Bradenton, Florida (March 27, 2008):
"My highschool days are filled with memories of the Bacon Twins.
Betty was so smart and fiesty, I knew then she would make the world a
better place and her life is surely a testimony to that. Even at our
40th high school reunion she was a special "hoot". Thanks
for the memories and the twins will always have a special place in
Mason's and my heart. Ellen and family, you are in our thoughts and
prayers."
Chuck Resh of Sarasota, Florida (March 27, 2008): "What
wonderful accomplishments Betty made during her very full filled time
on this blue sphere. I was so sorry to hear of Betty's passing but so
glad to have been able to see her at our 40th SHS school reunion. What
a legacy she leaves. My condolences to all her family and friends. May
God's peace be with each of you at this difficult time."
Susan Hinkle Chapman of Florida (March 27, 2008): "I
was fortunate enough to have known Betty since high school. She was a
lovely girl who became a lovely, accomplished woman. How sad to hear
of her death."
M.J. Honey of Chula Vista, California wrote (on
March 24, 2008): "I am too choked up with emotion to
make an intelligent comment. I can only say Betty you are sorely
missed and your work here is only a sample of what you will do at the
lords side. God bless."
Poppy De Marco Dennis of Del Mar, California (March 23, 2008):
"Betty truly made a huge and lasting difference in this earth
and world. Her spirit lives on, and a part of her lives on in each of
us that was touched and influenced by her work. We will miss
her!"
Christina N. Mills of Sacramento, California (and
Systems Change Coordinator for the California Foundation for
Independent Living Centers) (March 22, 2008): "Betty
was not only an activist, but one of the most loving and motivating
advocates I had ever met! I was always so impressed with the way she
could advocate for our rights without making it person. I appriciate
and will miss all of the great things Betty for our community."
Bud Sayles of Santee, California (March 21, 2008): "How
moving it is to read through the heartfelt messages of those who have
shared their thoughts and in many cases their very hearts. Betty was
about touching hearts and minds, whether at work, out advocating for
change, at a board meeting, or just sitting with her many friends. She
has touched so many and will live on in our words and deeds. So, let's
make her proud and advocate for what's right as she did and would be
doing today but for her passing. We'll do it for you Betty, you
certainly taught us how."
Judy Osman of Huntington Beach, California (March 21, 2008): "What? Betty was quiet during high school? The Betty I know was a strong vocal advocate for students. She was a patient teacher who helped me understand the issues facing students with disabilities so that I would be a more effective advocate at the systemwide level.
Judy Osman of Huntington Beach, California (March 21, 2008): "What? Betty was quiet during high school? The Betty I know was a strong vocal advocate for students. She was a patient teacher who helped me understand the issues facing students with disabilities so that I would be a more effective advocate at the systemwide level.
With fairness, compassion, and determination, Betty made sure I
never slacked on my responsibilities, and concomitantly, helped
whoever I sent her way for guidance.
Most importantly, it is because of her efforts and others that
students have opportunities to succeed in our system.
Cheers to you, Betty! You made a difference in many
lives...including mine."
Patricia Yeager of Greeley, Colorado (and former executive
director of the California Foundation for Independent Living Centers)
wrote (on March 21, 2008): "Oh Betty, how you will
be missed! When I was a newcomer to San Diego-coming in to run the
former Community Services Center of San Diego (now Access 2 Services)-
you made the way easier for me! You were so gracious and open to
change for the organization that started in your garage. You always
had answers and guidance to any question I had. We shared so many
laughs about the process of life and I loved your insights. You knew
how to have a good time and how to create change too! I am so grateful
to have been able to learn from you."
Sue Peters of Sarasota, Florida (March 20, 2008): "I
am so sad to learn of Betty's passing. I have fond memories of hanging
out at the Bacon's home and swimming in the pool. We graduated from
high school in the class of 1965. I'm so glad I got to see her at our
40th reunion."
Julianne Henry of San Diego, California (March 19, 2008):
"Betty was one of San Diego's true assets -- always willing
to help, seemingly tireless. She will be greatly missed by all who had
the priviledge or luck to know and/or work with her."
David Sanfilippo of Long Beach, California (March 18,
2008): "Betty, you have captured our hearts and
minds...you have taught us much through your wisdom and your example.
I'm pretty sure that angels in heaven are dazzled by your
"flashing chrome".. We will see you again, my friend."
William Mulvaney of Holland, Michigan (March 17, 2008):
"I also knew Betty from high school. Even though she was
quiet, she had a "joy of life" and a can-do attitude which
helped her turn her unfortunate accident into a positive in her life
and devotion to her work. She will be sorely missed. She may have been
small in stature but was a giant in life."
Gregory Harrison in California (on March 17, 2008): "I
am sorry that Betty passed away. I new Betty from CDR. Betty had a lot
to offer. I am going to miss her."
Pat and Roger Burkardt of Vista, California (March 17, 2008):
"I read all of the current "expressions" of loss
concerning Betty Bacon and tho I knew only for a short time I must say
I was aware of her wonderful works as well as her wonderful
personality. My husband, Roger and I met her and her very dear friend,
Michael, when they visited our home and , in Betty's words: "Our
chowder of cats". They came to pick out a kitten to love. The
best and most memorable moment of their visit was after she had chosen
her kitten and she was playing with our little kitten who had lost her
eye was when we explained she was "handicapped" she said to
us with one of her most famous smiles: " I think it's a
MATCH!" and she took her home along with Daisy-Mae! That's just
the way she was, isn't it?? Blessings to all her family and
friends."
Don Fenlason of San Diego, California (March 17, 2008):
"I was deeply saddened to hear of Betty’s passing. Betty
was a leader, advocate and friend. I feel privileged to have known and
worked with her. She had a large impact on this area, which will be
hard to replace. The world will be less with out her, but
fortunate to have been blessed with her presence. God Bless you
Betty."
John R. Johnson of San Diego (March 17, 2008): "Dearest
Betty - You are gone...but not really...and not ever. So much you have
done. You are the example of "Love all, Serve all". You were
the example to follow, to learn from and to be. Your love and service
were your strengths and your legacy. So, my tears are not of grief but
of the joy, the love, the care and understanding that you gave me and
many others. While your absence is an immense loss, what you gave will
endure forever...in this way you are always with us. We may have lost
a confidant and an advocate for justice but you are always with us.
I thank you for showing me that compassion and care for all, even
those who would cause harm is the right path.
I thank you for your leadership, your honesty, integrity and
dogged determination to pursue what your heart told you was the truth
and the right way. I thank you for your willingness to go on when we
faltered. I know that you expect us to carry on your work/our work and
so we will. You always carried a message of hope and understanding.
I pray you guide us in our endeavors; I ask you remind us to act
intelligently with love and patience; and above all, to remind us that
we must be the example that you were.
I wish you infinite love and grace on your new life and
journey."
Dennis Cannon of Washington, DC (March 17, 2008): "I
had the pleasure of working with Betty many years ago in CAPH. She
will be missed."
Norma Clark of San Diego (March 17, 2008): "Betty
was remarkable in de-stressing problem situations related to
properties with disabilities' issues. Her mixture of intelligence,
knowledge, wisdom and common sense was presented with a smile and
grace. A day with Betty in it was always a better day. She will be
missed greatly."
Anthony Tusler of Penngrove, California (March 17, 2008):
"For me, Betty was the thread through my life. From days when
we were students figuring out how we were going to get a job to our
long careers in the California State University system. We wanted and
we got jobs that allowed us to be disability activists. We got to
bring our activism to the creation of disability services in the CSU.
And we spent many long hours figuring out, sometimes arguing, about
the best ways to make students with disabilities full participants on
the campuses.
I owe my current life to her. In the spring of 1975 Sonoma State
College posted a half time disability services position. Betty wanted
the job. Fortunately, she generously felt that because of my advocacy
on the campus that I should get it. She didn't apply and thankfully
got the job at San Diego State. I spent the next 22 years at Sonoma.
She was a part of that first wave of disability activists on the campuses. I will miss her deeply."
She was a part of that first wave of disability activists on the campuses. I will miss her deeply."
Barbara Huntington of San Diego State University, Califronai
(March 17, 2008): "Betty was always there for me and
my students. We will miss her."
Rusty Krumm of San Diego (March 17, 2008): "We’ve
lost some significant soldiers in the disabled community recently, and
Betty was the General we all followed. Without Betty, the disabled
community has lost its most influential leader; nevertheless, we’re
all better advocates and individuals because of her. Thank you
Betty."
Debra Fischle-Faulk of Escondido, California (March 17, 2008):
"Betty was a remarkable being! She touched everyone she met
in a very positive way. She was a quiet, respected and effective
leader. I feel fortunate to have met and worked with her."
Laura Williams of Glendora, California (and president of
Californians for Disability Rights, Inc) (March 16, 2008): "Betty
will be sorely missed for her advocacy, her determination for justice
and independence, her delightful humor and her gentle and loving soul.
Our community is a better place for her contributions - and we will
forever be a better community for the time she shared with us.
Condolences to her family and friends, we grieve with you."
Susan Chandler of Los Osos, formerly from Sacramento,
California) (March 16, 2008): "Betty was a truly
effective advocate. I first met her through CAPH--now CDR. I always
enjoyed her spirit and energy. She was very astute about access and
insisted on disability inclusion in all aspects of life. She was a
perfect roll model for indepent living! I miss her. already."
Peter Margen of Walnut Creek, California (March 16, 2008):
"I remember serving with Betty on committees working on code
changes to increase accessibility for people with disabilities to the
built environment. Betty had an uncanny ability with language, often
providing the “save” compromise or the right word that everyone
else was looking for. Her talents and enthusiasm will be missed!"
Pam Hoye of San Diego, California (March 16, 2008): "My
story will be repeated by many, for Betty touched and helped in the
transformation of countless lives. For me, this meant a move from
Fresno to San Diego in August 1976. I'd come to San Diego in January
of that year, to explore the possibility of relocating. I had been
advised by a mutual friend to "see Betty".
In later years Betty would occasionally refer to me as "one of her students." While this was not entirely the case (I had graduated from Fresno State the year before), it might as well have been! Betty gave me the support and provided the necessary connections to make my move possible, just as she did for her newly arriving students coming to test their wings at SDSU. When I made my move in August I had an apartment, a job, and a team of personal assistants waiting for me! Not long after my move, she helped me acquire what I would call my first "Betty Bacon wheelchair", a chair that was custom fitted to me instead of standard hospital issue.
During the next 30 years Betty and I would share the same circles from time to time. But I feel that our friendship really only matured in recent years, when we set aside advocacy and found ourselves having occasional heart-to-heart talks about our common spiritual outlooks, perspectives on human nature, and experiences with men. Betty came to both of my recent annual birthday bashes, a new tradition which will be missing something from now on."
In later years Betty would occasionally refer to me as "one of her students." While this was not entirely the case (I had graduated from Fresno State the year before), it might as well have been! Betty gave me the support and provided the necessary connections to make my move possible, just as she did for her newly arriving students coming to test their wings at SDSU. When I made my move in August I had an apartment, a job, and a team of personal assistants waiting for me! Not long after my move, she helped me acquire what I would call my first "Betty Bacon wheelchair", a chair that was custom fitted to me instead of standard hospital issue.
During the next 30 years Betty and I would share the same circles from time to time. But I feel that our friendship really only matured in recent years, when we set aside advocacy and found ourselves having occasional heart-to-heart talks about our common spiritual outlooks, perspectives on human nature, and experiences with men. Betty came to both of my recent annual birthday bashes, a new tradition which will be missing something from now on."
Nora Navarrete of San Diego, California (March 16, 2008):
"Betty Bacon was a mover and shaker for all people but
especially so for the physically challenged. She served all people by
helping to create laws that allowed people using wheelchairs better
access to buildings, schools, hiking paths,etc.
Virginia Aldape introduced me to Betty Bacon back in August 1982. Through the years Betty's been a good friend, always ready to suggest yet another way of thinking or looking at a problem. She was always open to meeting and creating new friends.
Lately, I'd been going over to visit with her after church on Saturday or Sunday. We'd have dinner and talk about life and daily events. The last time we visited she was remembering having a good life growing up as a kid. I want to remember Betty that way.
Mostly, I'll remember Betty with a great big smile on her face and her arms up high above her head shaking away on the dance floor having great fun with friends."
Virginia Aldape introduced me to Betty Bacon back in August 1982. Through the years Betty's been a good friend, always ready to suggest yet another way of thinking or looking at a problem. She was always open to meeting and creating new friends.
Lately, I'd been going over to visit with her after church on Saturday or Sunday. We'd have dinner and talk about life and daily events. The last time we visited she was remembering having a good life growing up as a kid. I want to remember Betty that way.
Mostly, I'll remember Betty with a great big smile on her face and her arms up high above her head shaking away on the dance floor having great fun with friends."
Catherine Campisi, former director of the California
Department of Rehabilitation, Sacramento, California (March 16, 2008):
"Betty Bacon was a consummate professional and
dedicated advocate for all people with disabilities. She developed and
ran a highly successful, large and effective Disabled Student Services
program and thus was often called on by professional organizations,
both CAPED and AHEAD, to provide guidance, leadership, and assistance
to others and to the profession as a whole.
Betty rarely took the limelight in high profile roles but provided
insightful, highly accurate, and current information and assistance in
whatever areas she took on.
In addition, Betty saw so clearly the need for a connection
between a welcoming and accessible campus and a welcoming and
accessible community.
She was a leader in the San Diego disability community since her
arrival there in the mid 1970's. Before there was an
independent living center there, everyone was sent to "see Betty Bacon', if you were new in town and needed help.
independent living center there, everyone was sent to "see Betty Bacon', if you were new in town and needed help.
I was one of those people.
From our first meeting, began a dear lifelong friendship, close
collegial fellowship, and strong advocacy partnership. Betty's
charisma and friendliness attracted many to her in such ways and I am
only one of the lucky ones she touched closely for over thirty years.
San Diego, California, and nationwide, Betty is being mourned and
missed. While this is natural, she would want us to use her passing to
renew our commitment to a world that welcomes all people, where we
know and believe our diversity is our strength, where we care for our
planet and it's natural beauty, and most of all, we care for each
other.
In that spirit, we celebrate Betty and make that re-commitment in
her name for all she did for thousands of students, people with
disabilities, and the profession."
Joanne Sharp of Del Mar, California (March 16, 2008):
"Dennis and I are so fortunate to have known and worked with
Betty for many years. Losing her creates a big hole in our lives that
will remain empty- she was a truly remarkable person. Betty taught us
so many things, especially that a soft voice can often achieve more
than a loud one!
Godspeed, Betty."
Godspeed, Betty."
Unidentified person (March 16, 2008): "Our
deepest sympathy for your loss, Betty will live on in the hearts of
everyone who loved her..."
Suzanne Chappellet of San Diego (March 16, 2008):
"In My Pocket
I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.
My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.
They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.
Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.
But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious."
I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.
My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.
They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.
Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.
But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious."
Paula Beckman of San Diego (March 16, 2008): "No
words can express how I felt when I heard the news. You will be
forever missed. I just wish I could be half the woman Betty was. Her
courage will always be an inspiration to me."
Ann Johns of San Diego, California (March 16, 2008):
"Betty was an outstanding advocate for students. San Diego State
was very lucky to have her for so many years!"
Julie and Randy Long of Weeki Wachee, Florida (March 16,
2008): "Betty did have such remarkable
accomplishments of which to be so very proud. Randy remembers Betty as
being very quiet in high school, so with her later unkind, life
changing injury she really blossomed into such creative & powerful
assertiveness. The disability world will never be the same, thanks to
Betty! "
Ross Frauman of Mission Viejo, California (March 16, 2008):
"I came to SDSU's Disabled Student Services four years after
Betty and spent the next five years working with her. Sure Betty was
special in how she fought for the rights of all disabled students at
SDSU as well as disabled citizens throughout all of San Diego, but
what made her so special was as a role model for all people with
disabilities.
Whether it was jumping from her chair to her kitchen counter to
get the ingredients for dinner or leading a group of students on an
outing to see "And Justice for All", Betty made you forget
she was "disabled". Betty was a distinguished department
leader at the university, not a distinguished disabled department
leader. Spending time with Betty one soon would forget about her chair
when she'd suggest going for a walk.
One lasting memory will be when a student wanted us to go
skydiving; an event a bit too much for most of our students. Instead
we took a group to Otay Mesa for scenic rides in glider planes. I will
always remember the joyous expression on Betty's face as I carried her
from the plane back to her chair - of course she got back in line to
go flying a second time.
Betty, you will be missed and remembered by thousands. Hundreds of
SDSU graduates can claim that honor because of the work you led to
bring equal access to the university. Cindy and I will never forget
you, dear friend."
Michael Mankin of Sacramento, California (March 14, 2008):
"Betty Bacon was a personal friend to so many of us -- a real
icon in public policy, working on committees, appearing at review
boards, and bringing community issues to state and local government.
She will always be regarded as one of the most trustworthy, loyal,
helpful, courteous, and dedicated advocates of our time. She spoke up
on our behalf -- all for tne benefit of so many people with
disabilities, our friends and family. She knew full well that we
alone, through personal sacrifice of health we can ill afford to waste
-- we are the ones who are actually enforcing most of our nation's
disability rights laws on a daily basis by perseverance, participation
and vigilance. I will dearly miss her dedication, collaboration, and
strength of resolve in challenging every attempt to thwart our right
to liberty, autonomy and equality."
Susan Madison of Escondido, California (March 13, 2008):
"It was my honor and great pleasure to have worked with Betty
on San Diego's CRC, the What's Next disability mentoring program, the
SD Disability Coalition and now in the City Disabilty Services
Program. I hope to one day be 1/10th as gracious as Betty was. See you
on the other side, Betty! Love, Susan."
Melanie Sherman (Thal) of Kernville, California (March 12,
2008): "Betty was my Mom's best friend. They met
when they were children and have stayed close through the years. The
thing I remember most about Betty are the "rides" she would
give me as a little girl. I would sit on her lap and scream gleefully
as she wheeled down ramps. It was sooo fun! Last year Betty came to
visit my mom for her birthday. We went hiking up in the mountains. We
pushed Betty in her chair up and down rough terrain until we made it
to our destination. I'm glad I had a chance to spend such quality time
with her on that hike. Hiking will never be the same...You will be
missed."
Nan Valerio of San Diego (March 12, 2008): "I
was honored to have known Betty through her work on the City of San
Diego's Committee for the Removal of Architectural Barriers and later.
She was dedicated and effective in her tireless efforts to inprove the
quality of life for everyone, including those with disabilities."
Janet Carlson of Lemont, Illinois (March 11, 2008):
"I will be forever grateful that I had a chance to meet and get
to know Betty before this tragic accident took her from us. She was a
such a blessing to our family and she was taken from us much too soon.
God damn it - this is too hard!"
Toni Kuxhausen of Satasota, Florida (March 11, 2008):
"I am happy that Betty is now enjoying the wonderful
afterlife but am very sad for me...I miss her."
Rocky Burks of Rohnert Park, California (March 11, 2008):
"No words may ease the pain and sorrow that everyone who knew
Betty is now feeling. Please know that Betty will never be absent from
our heart as long as we continually cherish her unselfish
contributions each day in our daily activities."
Frances Gracechild, executive director, Resources for
Independent Living in Sacramento, California (March 11, 2008):
"Betty was an Independent Living Center activist and
colleague that I admired and respected. Whenever she came to the state
Capitol I looked forward to running into her. She was so generous with
her time and valuable information and perspective. Our loss is
Heaven's gain. My sincere condolences to her family and friends."
Elissa Moon of Santa Cruz, California (March 10, 2008):
"The amazing thing about Betty is that you could say a
million wonderful things about her, and they would all be true. I
first met her at an SDSU reception for her retirement. Hearing
everyone speak about her gave me an awesome impression. Despite being
such an important mover and shaker, she was always very approachable.
A great listener and a smooth talker. So wonderful on so many
levels."
Joseph Abrahamson of San Diego (March 10, 2008): "A
very special woman. She will be missed."
Louis Frick of San Diego (March 10, 2008):
"I feel extremely fortunate to have known Betty as both a
colleague and a friend. Her passing is a great loss to those who both
knew her and benefited from her knowledgeable and passionate
spirit."
Lauren Jablonski of Virginia (March 9, 2008):
"It was my pleasure and blessing to get to know you these past
few years, Betty, and I will truly miss you. You opened your heart and
your home to me and I will never forget the memories that we have
made. God bless you. "
Ellen Dorfman of Olympia, Washington (March 9, 2008):
"I had the good blessings to meet Betty a few times, she
touched my good friend Michael's heart deeply and I can only guess how
much he will miss her presence."
Michael Jablonski of Chula Vista, California (March 9, 2008):
"Betty is my confidant, my best friend, my life coach, my soul
mate, and the love of my life. She helped mold me into a better
person.
Betty is someone that everybody loved, and everybody wanted to
work with.
She is a team player, and her love of life and her dedication to
correcting wrongs and making things right will continue to live on
through everybody that ever had the honor and privilege to meet, work
with, or know her.
She will be greatly missed, but she will never be forgotten. Her
spirit will continue to guide us in the future, and when we are
stumped, we will all ask ourselves, "What would Betty have
done?" I'll love you forever Baby!"
Denard Davis of Merced, California (March 9, 2008): "Betty,
You have served as a model for many of us to follow. I wish that I had
gotten to know you better. My heart and prayers goes out to your
family."
Marty Omoto, California Disability Community Action Network in
Sacramento, California (March 9, 2008): "Betty will
always be a living and loving presence in this world for those who
fight for disability rights, for those who fight against injustice,
for those who fight to overcome barriers of access to our communities
and for those who believe most of all, that a life matters. Her life
certainly did for all of us. Our prayers and thoughts to her family
and those who loved her so much."
Peter Hepburn of La Mesa, California (March 8, 2008):
"I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many
are with you at this time of sorrow. "
Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Fye of Healing Angels Ministry in San
Diego, California (March 8, 2008): "THANK YOU and
BLESS YOU Betty for being a Healing Angel. "
OBITUARY
AS PUBLISHED IN THE SAN DIEGO UNION
(MARCH
8, 2008)
To view the obituary on the San
Diego Union website go to:
Persons can sign a guest book at
the San Diego Union website, leaving their thoughts at:
BACON, ELIZABETH (BETTY)
Elizabeth (Betty) Bacon, one of the most influential and dynamic advocates for the rights of people with disabilities in San Diego and California for more than 30 years, passed away unexpectedly due to illness Sunday, February 24, 2008, in San Diego. She was 61.
Elizabeth (Betty) Bacon, one of the most influential and dynamic advocates for the rights of people with disabilities in San Diego and California for more than 30 years, passed away unexpectedly due to illness Sunday, February 24, 2008, in San Diego. She was 61.
Before her retirement in 2004,
Betty worked for 29 years at San Diego State University, serving as
Director of Disabled Student Services (DSS) for 25 years and for four
years in the Office of Diversity and Equity, demonstrating leadership
in the formulation of policies that affect SDSU employees and visitors
to the campus. Betty became involved with disability issues after she
sustained a spinal cord injury in 1968 as the result of a sporting
accident. She used a wheelchair for the rest of her life.
She subsequently completed a B.A.
and Masters Degree in counseling at San Jose State University. She
became interested in the development of the support services program
for disabled students at San Jose State University. That involvement
marked the beginning of a professional career for this petite,
passionate, effective advocate for the rights of people with
disabilities.
Soon after in 1975, Betty moved to
San Diego to direct the DSS program at San Diego State University. She
took over a fledgling program serving about 100 students with
disabilities. The office was in the old Campus Laboratory School, in
space that had formerly housed the kitchen for the school cafeteria.
Under her direction, the program grew from a staff of two to 15
full-time employees and numerous part-time staff which now serves over
1,100 students annually.
Betty's on-campus responsibilities
also included consulting with staff in Facilities Planning and
Physical Plant on architectural accessibility to ensure compliance
with state and federal codes and regulations.
When the Americans with
Disabilities Act was passed in 1990, Betty coordinated the required
campus self-evaluation. The SDSU program, which she directed, became a
model for many others and she was often called upon as a mentor and
guide to other Directors of programs for students with disabilities in
higher education. In her campus work, she was a tireless advocate for
an accessible campus and for equal access for students with
disabilities to all university programs. In addition to developing the
DSS program at SDSU, Betty was involved at the system-wide and state
level.
She served as the chair of the
California State University DSS Directors, as a member of the CSU
Chancellors Office Advisory Committee on Services for Students with
Disabilities, and on a similar committee on Services for Faculty and
Staff with Disabilities.
Some of her additional
accomplishments include:
Serving on a variety of local
boards and advisory committees to the City and County addressing such
issues as architectural accessibility, access to public transportation
and employment.
Serving as an elected delegate to
the 1977 National White House Conference on Handicapped Individuals.
-- Founding Board Member of Community Service Center for the Disabled,
now Access to Independence, in San Diego, one of the largest
independent living centers in the country.
Betty was appointed by Governor
Wilson to the California Department of Rehabilitation Advisory
Committee, and served as an advisor to the Office of the State
Architect on code revisions. She also served as an executive committee
member of the California Association for Postsecondary Education and
Disability.
In addition, she served on the
Citizens Review Committee on ADA for the City of San Diego, as a
member of the Accessibility Advisory Committee to the Port of San
Diego, as a program evaluator at San Diego City College and several
other community colleges.
Betty went toe-to-toe with the oil
industry to make gas pumps accessible, the housing industry over
universal design, MTS on making the trolleys accessible, and the
Mayor's Office on creating and sustaining a disability services
position at City Hall.
Betty was always positive and
respectful as well as tireless, knowledgeable, and tenacious in her
dedication to an accessible community that is welcoming to everyone.
In her own words, "I believe that we must work toward a world and
a community that includes us all and values our differences."
Predeceased by her parents, Dr.
Alfons R. and Dorothy Bacon, she is survived by her twin sister Ellen
(and Scott) Guthrie of Tallahassee, Florida, brother Chuck (and
Caroline) Bacon of Falmouth, Massachusetts, sister Nancy (and David)
Rothel of Dahlonega, Georgia, brother Frank (and AnnLiv) Bacon of
Edina, Minnesota, brother Jim (and Jane) Chandler of Santa Fe, New
Mexico, and niece Laura Wiley of Raleigh, North Carolina as well as
numerous close friends and colleagues in San Diego, California, and
nationwide who will all miss her wisdom, positive spirit, dedication,
friendship and love.
Betty loved nature, and felt
strongly that the Earth must be cared for and protected so that all
persons, including people with disabilities, might enjoy and thrive on
our planet. As a result, she expressed a desire that in lieu of
flowers any donations in her name be sent to the Sierra Club, the
Nature Conservancy, or the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence. A
Celebration of Betty's Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, April
20, 2008 at the Town and County Resort & Convention Center, 500
Hotel Circle North (at Fashion Valley Road) in Mission Valley.
Please sign the guest book at
obituaries.uniontrib.com
Published in the San Diego Union-Tribune on 3/8/2008.
Published in the San Diego Union-Tribune on 3/8/2008.
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Without Borders - We Are ONE Community:
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MANY MANY THANKS to Alta California Regional Center, FEAT (Families for Early Autism Treatment), Friends of Children with Special Needs, Life Steps, Easter Seals California, Parents Helping Parents, UCP of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, Work Training, Foothill Autism Alliance, Arc Contra Costa, Pause4Kids, Manteca CAPS, Training Toward Self Reliance, UCP, California NAELA, Californians for Disability Rights, Inc (CDR) including CDR chapters, CHANCE Inc, , Strategies To Empower People (STEP), Harbor Regional Center, Tri-Counties Regional Center, Asian American parents groups, Resources for Independent Living and many other Independent Living Centers, several regional centers, People First chapters, IHSS workers, other self advocacy and family support groups, developmental center families, adoption assistance program families and children, and others across California
Connecting People With Disabilities, Mental Health Needs, Seniors, Traumatic Brain & other injuries, People with MS & other health needs, including People of color, different languages, cultures, Families, Workers, Providers, & Organizations to Rights & Unified Action.
This report - and the CDCAN townhall telemeetings, and other events and projects are for all of them and for promoting advocacy without borders toward unified action. We are one community.
To respond to this report reply to: Marty Omoto at martyomoto@rcip.com CDCAN website: www.cdcan.us
To continue the CDCAN website, the CDCAN News Reports. sent out and read by over 45,000 people and organizations, policy makers and media across California and to continue the CDCAN Townhall Telemeetings which since December 2003 have connected thousands of people with disabilities, seniors, mental health needs, people with MS and other disorders, people with traumatic brain and other injuries to public policy makers, legislators, and issues. Please send your contribution/donation (make payable to "CDCAN" or "California Disability Community Action Network):
CDCAN
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Sacramento, CA 95814
Note: the paypal option on the CDCAN website is temporarily not working and will be fixed soon.
The CDCAN Townhall Telemeetings are partially funded by a small grant from the USC UCEDD, Grant #90DD0540 from the Administration on Developmental Disabilities. (note: the opinions expressed or content in these reports do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the USC UCEDD.
MANY MANY THANKS to Alta California Regional Center, FEAT (Families for Early Autism Treatment), Friends of Children with Special Needs, Life Steps, Easter Seals California, Parents Helping Parents, UCP of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, Work Training, Foothill Autism Alliance, Arc Contra Costa, Pause4Kids, Manteca CAPS, Training Toward Self Reliance, UCP, California NAELA, Californians for Disability Rights, Inc (CDR) including CDR chapters, CHANCE Inc, , Strategies To Empower People (STEP), Harbor Regional Center, Tri-Counties Regional Center, Asian American parents groups, Resources for Independent Living and many other Independent Living Centers, several regional centers, People First chapters, IHSS workers, other self advocacy and family support groups, developmental center families, adoption assistance program families and children, and others across California
CALIFORNIA
DISABILITY COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK (CDCAN)
Advocacy
Without Borders - ONE Community:
Connecting People With Disabilities, Mental Health Needs, Seniors, Traumatic Brain & other injuries, People with MS & other health needs, including People of color, different languages, cultures, Families, Workers, Providers, & Organizations to Rights & Unified Action.
This report - and the CDCAN townhall telemeetings, and other events and projects are for all of them and for promoting advocacy without borders toward unified action. We are one community.
To respond to this report reply to: Marty Omoto at martyomoto@rcip.com CDCAN website: www.cdcan.us
To continue the CDCAN website, the CDCAN News Reports. sent out and read by over 45,000 people and organizations, policy makers and media across California and to continue the CDCAN Townhall Telemeetings which since December 2003 have connected thousands of people with disabilities, seniors, mental health needs, people with MS and other disorders, people with traumatic brain and other injuries to public policy makers, legislators, and issues. Please send your contribution/donation (make payable to "CDCAN" or "California Disability Community Action Network):
CDCAN
1225 8th Street Suite 480
Sacramento, CA 95814
Note: the paypal option on the CDCAN website is temporarily not working and will be fixed soon.
The CDCAN Townhall Telemeetings are partially funded by a small grant from the USC UCEDD, Grant #90DD0540 from the Administration on Developmental Disabilities. (note: the opinions expressed or content in these reports do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the USC UCEDD.
MANY MANY THANKS to Alta California Regional Center, FEAT (Families for Early Autism Treatment), Friends of Children with Special Needs, Life Steps, Easter Seals California, Parents Helping Parents, UCP of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, Work Training, Foothill Autism Alliance, Arc Contra Costa, Pause4Kids, Manteca CAPS, Training Toward Self Reliance, UCP, California NAELA, Californians for Disability Rights, Inc (CDR) including CDR chapters, CHANCE Inc, , Strategies To Empower People (STEP), Harbor Regional Center, Tri-Counties Regional Center, Asian American parents groups, Resources for Independent Living and many other Independent Living Centers, several regional centers, People First chapters, IHSS workers, other self advocacy and family support groups, developmental center families, adoption assistance program families and children, and others across California
Connecting People With Disabilities, Mental Health Needs, Seniors, Traumatic Brain & other injuries, People with MS & other health needs, including People of color, different languages, cultures, Families, Workers, Providers, & Organizations to Rights & Unified Action.
This report - and the CDCAN townhall telemeetings, and other events and projects are for all of them and for promoting advocacy without borders toward unified action. We are one community.
To respond to this report reply to: Marty Omoto at martyomoto@rcip.com CDCAN website: www.cdcan.us
To continue the CDCAN website, the CDCAN News Reports. sent out and read by over 45,000 people and organizations, policy makers and media across California and to continue the CDCAN Townhall Telemeetings which since December 2003 have connected thousands of people with disabilities, seniors, mental health needs, people with MS and other disorders, people with traumatic brain and other injuries to public policy makers, legislators, and issues. Please send your contribution/donation (make payable to "CDCAN" or "California Disability Community Action Network):
CDCAN
1225 8th Street Suite 480
Sacramento, CA 95814
Note: the paypal option on the CDCAN website is temporarily not working and will be fixed soon.
The CDCAN Townhall Telemeetings are partially funded by a small grant from the USC UCEDD, Grant #90DD0540 from the Administration on Developmental Disabilities. (note: the opinions expressed or content in these reports do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the USC UCEDD.
MANY MANY THANKS to Alta California Regional Center, FEAT (Families for Early Autism Treatment), Friends of Children with Special Needs, Life Steps, Easter Seals California, Parents Helping Parents, UCP of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, Work Training, Foothill Autism Alliance, Arc Contra Costa, Pause4Kids, Manteca CAPS, Training Toward Self Reliance, UCP, California NAELA, Californians for Disability Rights, Inc (CDR) including CDR chapters, CHANCE Inc, , Strategies To Empower People (STEP), Harbor Regional Center, Tri-Counties Regional Center, Asian American parents groups, Resources for Independent Living and many other Independent Living Centers, several regional centers, People First chapters, IHSS workers, other self advocacy and family support groups, developmental center families, adoption assistance program families and children, and others across California