Savannah Hosts Informational Session to Support Individuals with Disabilities

Supporting Individuals with Disabilities in Savannah

Savannah, Georgia, recently played host to a heartwarming informational session aimed at uplifting the lives of people with disabilities. Held at the Seventh Day Adventist Church, the event gathered local organizations to share valuable resources like jobs, free tuition, and housing opportunities. It was a day filled with knowledge and hope, as community members came together to learn and support one another.

Community Need Addressed

Behavioral Therapist Sandrene Foster, who has spent nearly five years working in Savannah, initiated this gathering based on her experiences with children diagnosed with autism. “There’s people out here that are in need,” she shared, echoing a sentiment that many can relate to. The growing number of children diagnosed with various developmental and learning disabilities is concerning, and Foster feels a strong drive to provide assistance and resources to these families.

Partnering for Employment

Representatives from the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA) also joined the conversation, sharing their mission to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve full-time gainful employment. Cherri Black from GVRA explained, “We are here to serve any individual with a disability. Our main goal is to support individuals with disabilities in obtaining full-time employment.”

One of the exciting aspects of what GVRA offers is their pre-employment transition services, which are available for students starting at age 14. This means that young people with disabilities have access to crucial information and training as they prepare to enter the workforce.

Creating a Sense of Community

Adding to the event’s lineup was George Seaborough from Savannah Citizen Advocacy. He emphasized the organization’s commitment to pairing individuals with disabilities with advocates to foster a supportive community. “We’re a staff of three people. With two people that do the match-making work,” he explained, underscoring the importance of finding the right advocate for each individual. This thoughtful approach ensures that people are not just given resources but are also matched with someone who understands their unique circumstances.

Hope for the Future

The session highlighted the importance of sharing information, even if it doesn’t involve tangible items. Foster expressed her hope to continue similar events. “It may not be physical; it may not be like giving them something or tangible. But just knowing that you can provide information… it brings a sense of relief, it brings a sense of hope,” she said.

A Bright Outlook

As attendees left the session, it was clear that the resources presented by local organizations would make a significant impact. The combination of job opportunities, educational support, and community advocacy means that people with disabilities in Savannah are not alone in their journeys. They have a network of resources and caring individuals ready to support them.

With dedicated professionals like Foster and proactive organizations in Savannah, the future looks bright for individuals with disabilities. The community’s commitment to inclusivity and support is paving the way for a better life for many, bringing hope and opportunity where it is needed most.