Tutoring Unchartered 2022-2023 - NH Council on Developmental Disabilities
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2022-2023
A guidebook for people with disabilities,
their families, and the professionals
who support them
Unchartered
Tutoring page 14
A specialty publication of
Published by Stones NH • 2022-2023 1
Stepping
Our Mission:
The NH Council on Developmental Disabilities is dedicated to dignity,
full rights of citizenship, cultural diversity, equal opportunities and full
participation for all New Hampshire citizens with developmental disabilities.
Council Members:
Suzanne Austin Deborah Opramolla
Abigail Conger Stephanie Patrick
Jean Crouch Danielle Pelletier
Carrie Duran Michele Petersen
Our Belief: We believe that citizens of all abilities are fully Krista Gilbert Michael Phillips
able to participate meaningfully in our society when given the
supports and opportunities they need. Sara Gray James Piet
Denis Greenwood Jennifer Pineo
Our Work: We work alongside people with disabilities to
Tim Houle Sarah Sadowski
elevate their voices and to bring groups together to plan and
build a better life for all of us. Joshua Madison Frank Vinceguerra
Tammy Mills Alexis Wayland
Council Staff:
Find the information you Scan the QR code for
need with the NHCDD grant opportunities Isadora Pamela Stiles,
Resource Guide: Rodriguez- ED Administrative
Legendre, Assistant
Executive Director Miles Trier,
nhddresources. Council Clerk
Vanessa Blais,
wordpress.com
Director of Policy
and Planning
NHCDD.NH.gov • (603) 271-3236
2 1/2 Beacon Street, Suite 10, Concord, NH 03301
Table of CONTENTS
6 Access For All
By Li Platz
8 Super Representation
By Blake Tyler
10 There’s a Better Future In Sight
By Randy Pierce
12 A Passion for Nursing
6
By Allison Love
14 Unchartered Tutoring
By Amber Nicole Cannan
18 Behind the Wheel:
Overcoming Challenges to
Obtaining a Driver’s License
By Matthew J. Mowry
22 In the Spotlight:
8 14
Story Corps with the
Disability Visibility Project
By Vanessa Blais
24 Collaborate to Communicate
By Jules Good
26 Resource Guide
22
OUR SPONSOR positive, long-term change to participate in all aspects of
New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities community life and supports community initiatives that
2 1/2 Beacon St Ste 10 Concord, NH 03301-4447 promote full citizenship and inclusion.
(603) 271-3236; www.nhcdd.nh.gov
The NH Council on Developmental Disabilities is dedicated
to dignity, full rights of citizenship, cultural diversity, equal
opportunities, and full participation for all NH citizens with
developmental disabilities. The Council initiates activities
and projects for and with people with disabilities that create
Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023 3
Dear Stepping Stones NH Readers:
I’m happy to introduce you to our 2022-2023 issue of Stepping
Stones NH magazine. The NHCDD is committed to providing this
important resource for individuals, families, providers, and other Co-Publisher and Matthew J. Mowry
Executive Editor mmowry@BusinessNHmagazine.com
important stakeholders.
Co-Publisher Christine Carignan
and Chief ccarignan@
As a community, we continue to come together to navigate our Creative Officer MillyardCommunications.com
surroundings in new ways. We are excited that many events are Co-Publisher and Nathan Karol
Chief Growth Officer nkarol@CardinalConsultingNH.com
happening in person. We are even more excited about all the efforts
being made to make these community gatherings and activities more Staff Writer Judi Currie
jcurrie@BusinessNHmagazine.com
accessible for people with disabilities.
Proofreader Celia Heavisides
We have been contributing funds through our new Accessibility and Account Executive Elizabeth Frost
efrost@BusinessNHmagazine.com
Emerging Needs grants for organizations to be more inclusive in how
they share information and plan activities to better integrate people Account Executive Laura Maxfield
lmaxfield@BusinessNHmagazine.com
with disabilities. We have also been available to provide technical
Ad Sales sales@BusinessNHmagazine.com
assistance to groups and organizations who want to eliminate barriers
Circulation Manager Deborah Nichols
for people with disabilities in NH to participate in advocacy and circassistant@
community enrichment. BusinessNHmagazine.com
Event Director Kelly Keating
eventmanager@
We continue to support initiatives that align with the NHCDD five- MillyardCommunications.com
year plan goals, contributing to advocacy and community inclusion Event Coordinator Vicki Pelczar
in meaningful ways. Articles in this issue cover topics like driver’s eventassistant@
MillyardCommunications.com
education, art and science, and health care providers with disabilities.
Office 80 Canal St., Suite 203
There are also interesting contributions related to the accessibility Manchester, NH 03101
603-626-6354
needs from individuals across the disability spectrum in NH.
We hope that you take the time to review the valuable stories
and helpful information in this issue. Also, check out the Nature
Conservancy’s Cedar Creek Trail for All in Manchester, NH to see
what a truly inclusive community project can look like.
If you have any ideas for articles or projects,
please let us know at info@nhcdd.us. We would
love to hear from you about important topics for
the disability community.
Stepping Stones NH is published by
Granite Media Group
Isadora Rodriguez-Legendre 80 Canal St, Ste 203
Manchester, NH 03101
Executive Director 603-626-6354
NH Council on Developmental Disabilities
Please forward any inquiries or correspondence
to 80 Canal St, Manchester, NH 03101. For editorial
information, please call 603-626-6354. For information on
how your company can advertise in Stepping Stones NH,
Check out our Facebook page, which features information, events, call 603-626-6354.
conferences and workshops relevant to the developmental disabilities
community in NH: facebook.com/NHCDD. You can also access our BusinessNHmagazine.com
online resource guide at nhddresources.wordpress.com.
Business NH Magazine , 80 Canal St, Ste 203,
Manchester, NH 03101 (ISSN 1046-9575), is published
monthly by Granite Media Group; Matthew J. Mowry,
Christine Carignan and Nathan Karol, co-publishers.
Copyright © 2022. All rights reserved. Reproduction in
whole or in part without permission is prohibited.
4 Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023
Miracles
every day
Providing early intervention in the
Seacoast, and an array of family support
services around the state!
Our team of highly skilled Early Supports & Services
specialists is dedicated to helping children, birth to
three, reach their full developmental potential.
l Comprehensive evaluations by experts in child development
l Physical therapy
l Occupational therapy
l Speech & language therapy
l Early childhood education
Accredited by
waypointnh.org
Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023 5
Access
For All
Explore Nature Along
the All Persons Trail
in Manchester
Rooted In Light Media
By Li Platz
Aislinn Graves of Wheels in the Wilderness explores the
All Persons Trail with her husband David.
M
inutes from downtown ter Cedar Swamp in April 2022. The portable toilet. TNC also partnered
Manchester lies something out-and-back trail is 6 feet wide with with the Manchester Transit Author-
out of a fairy tale: Man- gentle, rolling terrain. It features an ity to add a new bus stop, providing
chester Cedar Swamp Preserve, a informational kiosk, resting bench- much-needed transportation to the
640-acre property managed by The es, interpretive signs designed for preserve. “It’s a place where any per-
Nature Conservancy (TNC) in New wheeled device access, and an au- son with any level of ability can go
Hampshire with rare Atlantic white dio tour in both English and Span- to enjoy the beauty of natural New
cedar swamps, towering hemlock ish. At the accessible parking area, Hampshire and to learn about one
groves and, if you visit in mid-sum- visitors can use an ADA-compliant another; a place where everyone can
mer, a flush of giant rhododendron coexist with a shared interest,” said
blooms. Yet the magic of places like Max Morelli, director of program
Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve services for Opportunity Networks.
has long been inaccessible for those It truly is a place for all.
with disabilities. After a positive Learn more about the All Persons
community response to a universal- Trail and visiting the preserve at na-
ly accessible trail at its Ossipee Pine ture.org/manchester.
Barrens Preserve, TNC considered
building a trail in our most popu-
lated city that helps everyone expe- Li Platz is Marketing and Com-
rience nature. munications Intern with The Nature
TNC participated in virtual com- Conservancy in New Hampshire and a
munity-led conversations to learn student at Williams College who’s pas-
about common barriers people with sionate about writing, outdoor recre-
disabilities and other community ation and expanding access to nature.
groups face in accessing the out- If Li isn’t at work or in the library, she’s
doors. After three years of listening, likely on a trail somewhere between
A mother and child review
planning and construction, the All Durham, New Hampshire, and Land-
the trail map.
Persons Trail opened at Manches- er, Wyoming.
6 Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023
V2 Revised LI-Mosaic Ad for NH Magazine.pdf 1 8/30/2021 3:28:19 PM
HELPING PEOPLE TO HAVE A
GOOD LIFE AT HOME AND IN
THE COMMUNITY.
Inclusion Participation Mutual Relationships
Helping people with developmental disabilities
live and work in their communities.
For almost 40 years,
Monadnock Developmental C
Services has supported families
M
and people with developmental
and related disabilities in the Y
34 towns in the southwestern
CM
corner of New Hampshire.
MY
How we can help: CY
• Advocacy • Family support
CMY
• Respite • Training
K
• Planning for life transitions
• Information about benefits
• Early Supports & Services (0-3)
To g ether we are stro nger.
• Information and referral service
If you or someone you know needs more information on Living Innovations provides support to people to
have a good life at home and in the community.
how MDS can help, please call, write or visit us online. Our services include shared living, community
connections, supported employment, school
to adult transition support, and in-home support.
Monadnock Developmental Services
121 Railroad St, Keene NH 12A Depot St, Peterborough NH
603-352-1304 www.mds-nh.org 603-924-4203 LivingInnovations.com | NH Offices in Portsmouth, Exeter, Derry & Concord
Crotched Mountain Foundation
Launches $1 Million
MCMS provides Music Therapy
Special Education Initiative services for individuals and
collaborates with school
districts, community
organizations, and healthcare
facilities throughout
Southern New Hampshire
Working with a Board Certified Music Therapist,
CMF Kids partners with school districts from clients often show significant growth and
economically disadvantaged towns to support development in the areas of:
and strengthen special education for kids - Motor Skills - Communication
with the most complex disabilities. - Social Skills - Emotional Expression
- Executive Functioning Skills
CMFkids
MCMS is proud to offer adaptive lessons for
all abilities and instruments
For more information,
contact Shannon Laine, MM, MT-BC
A Program of Crotched Mountain Foundation shannon@mcmusicschool.org
Learn more at cmfkids.org 2291 Elm Street Manchester, NH 03104
www.mcmusicschool.org | 603-644-4548
Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023 7
Chuck Zlotnick/Marvel Studios
Vincent D’Onofrio as Wilson Fisk/Kingpin and Alaqua Cox as Maya Lopez in Marvel
Studios’ HAWKEYE.
Super
Representation
By Blake Tyler
E
veryday in New Hampshire, about 12% of the One of these heroes is someone who actually rep-
population is living their day to day lives with a resents two worlds; the deaf community and also women
developmental disability. The disabled commu- of color! Her name is Echo, and she is rising up the ranks
nity does not want to be treated special or have hollow of the public consciousness lately thanks to her masterful
dispensations hurled their way, they simply want the same portrayal by Alaqua Cox in the show Hawkeye and will
respect and opportunities as everyone else in society. Of- soon have her own show on Disney+. Echo is raised to be
ten, the disabled community goes largely ignored and un- a master hand to hand combat specialist and thanks to
der-represented in many different mediums. So it’s always her being deaf is a master of reading lips and can mimic
nice to see representation on a large scale that reaches any moves after seeing them performed once!
mass audiences, and one of the largest stages you will find Adding to the authenticity of the character as por-
these stories presented are the world of superheroes. trayed in the show is the casting choice. Alaqua Cox was
8 Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023
Caring for children with
complex medical needs
• Short and long term
pediatric care
(infant to 22 years)
• Advanced respiratory
care including trach
and vent weaning
• Hospital to home transition care
• Specialized physical, occupational and speech therapies
• Onsite school with residential and day education services
Marvel Studios
91 Maple Avenue, Keene, NH
cedarcrest4kids.org • 603-358-3384
born deaf and raised on the Menominee Indian Res-
ervation in Keshena, Wisconsin. She is a member of
the Menominee and Mohican Nation and attended the
Wisconsin School for the Deaf, where she played on the
girls basketball team from 2014-2015 as well as the vol- CARING FOR
leyball team. OUR COMMUNITY
This sort of representation, while not a cure all or sil-
All Day, Everyday,
ver bullet for the hurdles the disabled community faces,
is a welcome launching pad. The hope is that by start-
ing with one portrayal and one character, thousands of For a Lifetime
people can finally see themselves and feel seen on screen
and inspire many more Alaqua Cox’s to keep shattering
ceilings in the future.
Proudly serving infants
To close in the words of the immortal Stan Lee, “That
with developmental delays,
person who helps others simply because it should or
children and adults
must be done, and because it is the right thing to do, is with disabilities and
indeed without a doubt, a real superhero.” seniors in need of care.
Blake Tyler is a Social Media Assistant with the New
info@gatewayscs.org
Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities, a
(603) 882-6333
lifelong Granite Stater, and passionate fan of all things
www.gatewayscs.org
comics related.
Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023 9
There’s a Better
Future In
Sight
By Randy Pierce
I
’m delighted to introduce you to the incredible mis-
sion of Future In Sight along with some very personal
and powerful perspectives on our inclusive approach
to celebrating ability awareness.
Future In Sight is a nonprofit organization that is ded-
icated to transforming the lives of those who are blind
or visually impaired. A byproduct of this work is that we
also help transform the lives of the family members and
friends whom our clients rely on in their day-to-day lives.
In order to do this, Future In Sight provides a range of
Randy Pierce, left, hiking with his wife
services in education, rehabilitation and social services to
Tracy and his guide dog.
infants and toddlers, children (3-22), adults and seniors
throughout NH. These services are part of a holistic con-
tinuum of care that includes counseling, group therapy, experienced an unexpected —and very sudden—loss of
occupational therapy, low vision therapy, vision rehabil- sight. I felt the frustration of helplessness and hopelessness
itation therapy, orientation and mobility training, edu- as I thought everything fun or meaningful in my life was
cation services and technology training. We also partner no longer possible. Fortunately, I was referred to Future
with medical and eye professionals, healthcare facilities, In Sight and they helped me begin to understand that the
social service organizations and state agencies, including possibilities were nearly limitless. A practiced and experi-
the Department of Education and Department of Reha- enced counselor understood the reality of my challenges
bilitation Services. Services are personalized to meet our with sight loss, my own approach to that loss and the vari-
clients’ needs — in the home, at work, at school and in the ous community challenges. Education, demonstration and
community. Whether it is no vision or low vision, Future the arrival of low vision therapy helped me to quickly learn
In Sight has techniques to promote confidence, compe- and grow. We adapted my home in subtle ways to enhance
tence and dignity for everyone. my safety as well as the access to all my home appliances.
Future In Sight understands the developmentally dis- I was cooking, cleaning, managing my mail in slightly ad-
abled community experiences an elevated risk to many justed ways. Soon I was learning to travel inside and out-
health challenges. Our team of Occupational Therapists side the home and returned to my job with confidence.
who practice in low vision are particularly proficient in I was thrilled to learn there are tools to magnify text,
assessing complex situations and challenges to create an enhance the contrast, improve the lighting and reduce
individualized plan to meet the needs of the client. Each the glare. There is technology to provide speech from
of our clients is a collaborative partner in determining the talking books to talking computers and smart phones.
goals established to define success. Our professional staff There is a peer support group to collaborate and com-
utilizes a team approach to ensure the full range of our miserate with those who understood and had quality
services are deployed to best reach those goals. suggestions. There are volunteers that provide transpor-
I well understand all of these realities because they are tation and help me with the important tasks, which I
a part of my personal journey. Thirty-three years ago, I might still find challenging.
1 0 Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023All of this transformed my life, allowing me to live and which enables me to give all of my effort to ensure the
thrive. Future In Sight even helped to connect skills that we teach are there for everyone who faces
me to my first guide dog and my indepen- vision challenges. I know personally how valu-
dent travel became even easier as well as able the services of our organization are for
more rewarding; after all, nobody ever success – however any of us may measure
asks to pet my cane. it. I believe Future In Sight’s choice to
Over a few years my legal blind- hire me in this role demonstrates their
ness progressed to total blindness inclusive approach and also the quali-
and each time I lost sight, there was ty of service they have been committed
a supportive and knowledgeable to offering the NH community for over
person to help guide me through 100 years. Because of my personal experi-
the training necessary. Along with my ence with the organization, I am confident
return to work came a host of activities to say to anyone who encounters sight loss,
important to me. I trained for and received low vision or blindness, “there is a better future
a 2nd degree black belt in Shaolin Kempo karate. in sight thanks to Future In Sight”!
I learned to climb mountains here in NH and all over the
world. I started running races and won a pair of Nation-
al Marathon Championships. I founded a company and Randy Pierce is the President & CEO of Future In
developed an international speaking career. I even wrote Sight. He is also a captivating motivational speaker who
a book to share the many epic adventures and lessons of draws upon his life experiences to inspire, entertain, and
my life, “See You at the Summit. All of this allowed me teach. Randy has climbed to the summit of Mount Kili-
to support charitable organizations who had helped me, manjaro, won two national marathon championships, and
repaying the kindness I’d received. earned his 2nd degree black belt in Karate – all while being
Last year, Future In Sight invited me to become their 100% blind. He co-authored a book of his experiences, See
president and chief executive officer. It’s a dream job, You at the Summit, with his wife Tracy.
Community Bridges is dedicated to offering exceptional services to community members living with
developmental disabilities or acquired brain injuries. Our approach is person centered to ensure
individuals take the lead in pursuing a self-determined good life.
Through a partnership with supported community members and their families, we look to bridge any
potential barriers between those we serve and participation in their community.
162 PEMBROKE ROAD, CONCORD, NH 03301
TOLL-FREE: 1-800-499-4153 • PHONE: 603-225-4153
WWW.COMMUNITYBRIDGESNH.ORG
Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023 1 1A Passion
for Nursing
By Allison Love
Author Allison Love in her nursing uniform, above, and with her dog, below.
W
hen I was growing up, was at my school constantly to make was passionate about and build a
I was fascinated by sci- sure that I was getting the education community through these activities.
ence and medicine and I deserved. She would remind my I was a talented musician and music
thought for sure I was going to be a teachers that even though I didn’t helped me in every way imaginable,
doctor. I always did very well in my talk that I could both understand and including teaching me how to make
schoolwork and had a strong desire communicate; and she helped come and keep friends through common
and curiosity for new information. up with communication systems for interests.
However, as I got older, I began to me to interact with my teachers. As we began to think about my fu-
realize that the things about me that ture after graduation, my parents and
made me different from my peers therapists helped me learn skills that
would also make it harder for me to would allow me to go to college and
be independent enough to have this live on my own; such as shopping in
career that I wanted. a store, making phone calls, and ask-
My family and I did not know I ing for help when I needed it. I was so
had autism until I was in my 20s, but scared to go to college, but I wanted
there were plenty of other diagnoses badly to work in medicine and with
I was given up to that point to try the support of my family and my own
to explain my differences. Now, as drive to reach my goals, I made that
an adult and a women’s health nurse leap. By this time, I knew I wanted
practitioner, I attribute a great deal to be a nurse practitioner instead of
of my success to the love and dedi- a doctor because in my chosen field
cation of my parents. I had the great of gynecology, I learned that doctors
privilege of benefiting from a stay- are surgeons, and I wanted no part of
at-home mom throughout my child- that. I planned to get a bachelor’s de-
hood and despite her not knowing gree in biology first, then move on to
that I was autistic, she gave me every nursing school getting both a bache-
resource and therapy that she could lor’s and a Master’s in Nursing.
learn about. As I moved into middle and high When I started nursing school, I
I went to public school all the way school, my parents both encouraged realized how truly difficult it was for
through 12th grade, and my mom me to dive deeply into the things I me to interact with patients and I was
1 2 Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023unsure if I could make it as a nurse. I excelled in academ-
ics as always, but in nursing school that is a very small
part of the picture. As I spent more time around my peers,
experienced nurses, and instructors I began to realize how
good I was at learning and mimicking social interactions
from observing others. I could go into a patient room and
take a blood pressure once I knew what a nurse says and
nh
hu g
.or
does when they perform that task.
ngers
Slowly, I began to accumulate scripts in my mind for ol u ti o n s
different situations. I realize now that this is a common
trait amongst women and girls with autism, and I feel very
proud of it because it has allowed me to succeed in nurs-
ing. Now that I, as a nurse, am comfortable and confident
with my scripts I have more room in my brain to connect
with my patients individually and to adapt to different
types of people and different situations.
Looking back on my life until this point, I believe that I
have found success by learning about myself and my brain
and figuring out how to use my skills to my advantage,
even if it means doing things differently than others. Fur-
thermore, I think I have my parents to thank for teaching
me the way I needed to be taught and advocating for me
until they could teach me to advocate for myself.
Thanks Mom and Dad.
Unlimited
possibilities for
students with
special needs
monarchschoolne.org
Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023 1 3Unchartered Tutoring
By Amber Nicole Cannan
Amber Nicole Cannan, left, with group of students in the Unchartered Tutoring science gardens.
I
t’s no secret that overcrowded or if their heating bill has been paid. for superpowers and paid double.
classrooms have become com- Students without these basic human I founded Unchartered Tutoring
monplace. How, then, can we needs are not going to learn. Addi- with these challenges in mind. I be-
expect teachers to recognize, reach, tionally, if a student’s very identity is lieve we can accomplish learning ob-
and educate children who are with- compromised, or control over their jectives through smaller class sizes,
drawn, or those whose fundamen- own bodies is removed, it will impair cross topic lessons, and teachers who
tal needs are not being met? If this learning and their education could provide a human connection.
continues, the students we love will be in jeopardy. Small class sizes are vital for ac-
keep going unnoticed, unassisted, The hardest part of my job is commodating students with varying
and unincluded. seeing students who lack life’s ne- challenges. As an after-school educa-
Anxiety is a major learning obsta- cessities. Evaluating students’ needs tor, I can control my class sizes where
cle that seems to be based in Maslow’s becomes impossible in overfilled daytime teachers cannot. Additional-
Hierarchy and identity. Daily, I can’t classrooms. Teachers who can ac- ly, I can teach a class of fifteen alone,
be sure my students have food at complish this in a classroom of over but with an assistant, we can form an
home, clean clothes, steady shelter, twenty students should be evaluated emotional connection with our stu-
1 4 Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023dents. Because I limit our class sizes,
we can form the emotional connec-
tion required for students to disclose
when their basic needs are not being
met. We’ve identified and assisted
students with learning challenges,
abuse at home, and those who need
to feel a little extra love and connec-
tion. The smiles and light in a stu-
dent’s eyes when they feel heard and
helped is what makes my job the best
job in the world. This is a testament
to the teachers I have hired.
One element that inspires student
success is our approach. To teach
children in the vulnerable popula-
tion, we’ve created a curriculum that
educates, engages, and avoids trig-
gering sensory issues. A student in an after-school program learning about
Before Covid, we provided gloves wood’s lamps and phosphorescence.
and masks for students with sensory
issues. COVID-19 has made it more
commonplace to have these items on variety of other ewwy gooey things. We have enough tools and aids on
hand. Granted, masks don’t block all We keep citrus-scented oils on hand hand that students can make a slime
smells, but they do seem to help, if to try to mask some of those smells. without going into sensory overload.
only psychosomatically. Some of our In other lessons where we use smells, The relief I’ve seen on students’ faces
lessons inherently stink, particularly students have the choice to de- when I tell them they can make slime
in our Gross Science series where we cline them if they so wish. Yes, it is and play with it without ever touch-
create simulated fecal matter and a that simple. ing it is confidence boosting to both
of us!
Learning disabilities and poverty
are not the only learning barriers in
a classroom. Students from disadvan-
taged groups need adults they can re-
late to. My teachers have done a lot of
reading and listening regarding what
it means to be BIPOC, LGBTQ+,
disabled, neurodivergent or a part of
other disadvantaged demographics
in this country, and how that affects
Maslow’s Hierarchy for their students.
Many of my teachers come from these
spaces because I seek them out!
I’ve stopped evaluating potential
new hires by grades or test scores.
Those criteria favor the socioeco-
nomically advantaged, white male.
Many people, especially those with
A student looks at Estigmene acrea frass intellectual or learning disabilities,
through a microscope. lacked resources and aren’t well-rep-
Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023 1 5to transport lesson boxes because
wheels are smarter, and accommoda-
tions shouldn’t be reserved for those
with a doctor’s note.
The biggest challenge I’ve encoun-
tered was resolved by building a ro-
bust system of checklists--a method
of checking out lessons to ensure
supplies are ready ahead of time and
that several eyes on the schedule en-
sure that no mistakes were made.
With such processes in place, my
small business operates as smoothly as
a big business. When someone moves
on, another can take command and
run it with very few questions.
Our method works because the
human connection between us makes
Elise helps a student with a scientific illustration. robust learning possible.
Because my teachers believe in us,
resented by conventional standards. commitment from me to give more we have an amazing system where
However, low test scores can have thorough training and patience with children can learn, and teachers can
some bearing on what they can do errors. Sometimes I must stop what teach. In the end, isn’t that my job, as
for Unchartered Tutoring—it makes I’m doing to reassure an anxious em- a teacher and as the boss?
them stronger teachers and gives ployee that they are doing a wonder-
them the ability to connect with stu- ful job and that I am extremely happy
dents who struggle in similar ways! It with their performance. Other times, Amber Nicole Cannan (She/Her,
is an advantage! I guide them on technology multiple They/Them) is our founder and pri-
When interviewing, I seek that times to ensure they have the auton- mary muse/instructor. She is a bio-
moment when candidates are de- omy to make their own schedules. medical artist, science and art teacher
scribing a project and they lean for- All teachers are given hand trucks and general community member.
ward in their seats. I watch for that
moment when their eyes twinkle as
they recall an impact they had where
they knew they changed their envi-
ronment for the better. If those mo-
ments align with my needs, I hire
them. If it doesn’t they don’t, I evalu-
ate whether the skill is trainable or an
innate personality trait.
Being the boss for over seven years,
I’ve realized that all the skills I need
from workers are trainable. Their val-
ues are not. I’m not evaluating them
by the resources they had growing up,
but for how they will work and how
much they love what we are doing.
Hiring neurodivergent people
and those with intellectual or physi- A student carefully measures the ratios for her
cal disabilities does take a little extra exothermic reaction.
1 6 Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023 1 7
Behind
the Wheel
Overcoming Challenges to Obtaining a Driver’s License
By Matthew J. Mowry
L
ike any teenager, Abigail Ripley was excited about just over the border in Vermont, the closest place certified
gaining freedom when she signed up in November to provide such evaluations.
2021 to take lessons at a driver education school. The driving school then told Ripley she couldn’t take
Then, she learned there was an issue. Ripley has a 504 driver’s education until after the evaluation. By the way,
plan, a program developed by schools to assist students that evaluation cost $750 on top of the fee for drivers ed.
with disabilities. According to a state website, a 504 plan is “My mom emailed the head of DMV and the gover-
a set of accommodations, or changes in the classroom en- nor’s office on disability,” Ripley says. The governor’s of-
vironment, to help a child follow the regular curriculum. fice referred her to the NH Council on Development Dis-
It is less formal and involved than an Individualized Ed- abilities, which provided a grant covering the cost of the
ucation Program (IEP) and does not change the instruc- evaluation. Meanwhile, Ripley had to postpone driving
tion itself. For example, a student who uses a wheelchair classes due to how far out evaluations were booked.
but doesn’t need academic supports would have a 504 The three-hour evaluation included physical and cogni-
plan. See Accommodations below for other examples. A tive tests as well as a driving test with the evaluator. Ripley
student may qualify for a 504 plan but not an IEP. says the evaluator remarked on how much mobility and
Ripley and her parents originally arranged the 504 to strength she had in her arm and commented that Ripley
avoid potential issues that might come up as Ripley does was the best first-time driver they had seen. The evaluator
not have functional fingers on one hand. But that has nev- did say Ripley needed a steering wheel knob, a recommen-
er kept her from accomplishing anything she has pursued, dation that was forwarded to the driving school.
including playing high school lacrosse. While the driving school added a knob for Ripley in
Ripley says without meeting her and based solely on the driver’s education car, Ripley says, “It made it even
the fact that she had a 504, the private driving school harder to learn. I felt it was not necessary. … I had driv-
mandated an evaluation by an adaptive driving expert en 20 hours with my mom and never used this device.
1 8 Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023My pediatrician, who has the same limb difference as me, cars,” Frazier says. “We recommend equipment and train
does not use this device and there is nothing on her li- them with equipment.”
cense that indicates she needs it.” That is why those with learning and physical disabili-
After completing her driver training, Ripley’s mom ties or those who have been in an accident or experienced
called the DMV to see if the knob was required for the a medical event, are often referred to certified driver re-
exam and was told it was up to her. She not only aced habilitation specialists by providers of driver training.
her written test but also received a perfect score on the “We want to make sure the person learning to drive is
driving portion. “It made me feel like I couldn’t do it appropriate to drive,” Frazier says. Scamman adds she
on my own,” Ripley says of having to use the knob for also receives referrals through the state’s NH Vocational
driver’s education. Rehabilitation program to assist those who must drive
Ripley says she is lucky she has parents who are such to work.
strong advocates and were able to find a grant to cover the Scamman says she asks clients about their ability to
cost of the evaluation. While Ripley says she is grateful manage other life skills as that can help to assess their
the evaluation allowed her to take the training, she says ability to drive and she provides a variety of tests that
the evaluation was unnecessary. She adds that she took up evaluate such things as attention, visual scanning, and
an evaluation slot and grant money that someone with a perception. The evaluation includes having the client
more severe disability could have used. in a car demonstrating basic driving
knowledge, such as an understanding
Helping People of the pedals, and the ability to execute
Get on the Road Safely turns and using turning signals. Eval-
Such evaluations are required when uations start in a parking lot and may
people may need adaptive equipment proceed to a neighborhood or rural
to assist them in driving, says Amanda road, Scamman says.
Scamman, a certified driver rehabilita- Frazier says even if the person has
tion specialist at Northeast Rehabilita- an apparent disability, a thorough
tion Hospital, one of only two facilities evaluation is done to assess whether
that offer such services in NH. there are other needs. “We can’t make
Certified driver rehabilitation spe- assumptions,” she says. And it is not
cialists evaluate people’s physical and just people with physical disabilities
cognitive abilities to see if they can who are referred for evaluations. Peo-
meet the demands for driving. They ple with ADHD, anxiety, have autism,
Abigail Ripley receiving
also recommend adaptive equip- or require special services may also be
her driver’s license.
ment when an individual needs it to referred for an evaluation, Frazier says.
drive safely. “Even if it is appropriate for them to
According to Staci Frazier, an occupational therapist drive, there are times those young adults need specialized
and certified driver rehabilitation specialist with Drive- interventions and teaching techniques that they won’t get
Ability, a state-accredited driver school at Exeter Hospi- through traditional driver’s education.”
tal, traditional driving schools do not have the training Due to time constraints as well as the need to have a
to evaluate whether a person needs adaptive equipment. controlled environment for evaluations, clients are re-
A specialist can evaluate a person’s vision, perception, quired to come to the evaluation site, says Scamman, who
cognition, and reaction time to determine if there are is- sees clients from across the state.
sues that could affect the ability to drive, says Frazier, who “In general people with disabilities are so appreciative
earned certifications as a driving instructor as well as a of my services,” Scamman says, adding she occasionally
driver rehabilitation specialist. has a disgruntled parent who is not happy their child re-
Once an evaluation is completed and it is determined quires an evaluation. On the other hand, “Families of our
if the person can drive with or without adaptive equip- aging population are appreciative as they are not sure if
ment, the person then enrolls in driver’s ed, including at mom and dad should be driving and I can counsel them,”
DriveAbility. “If a young adult needs adaptive equipment, she says.
a traditional driving school [may] not be able to meet Scamman says her clients range in age from 16 to 80
their needs as they will not have the equipment in their and 90% reach their driving goals.
Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023 1 9Limited Access
One issue is the limited availability of certified driver
rehabilitation specialists in NH. There are only a handful
of specialists, and all are in southern NH. Scamman says,
“There are not enough to serve the whole state.”
But when a medical referral or a driving school re-
quires an evaluation for someone from northern NH,
they have to travel hours to get an evaluation or go out of
state. “It is a challenge,” Frazier says.
And, if someone requires adaptive equipment to learn
to drive, many schools are unable to accommodate those
unique needs.
In addition, evaluations are not cheap. Scamman says
an evaluation at Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital costs between $500 and $1,000, Frazier says, adding adaptive
$500 and examines the ability to drive and other skills equipment can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars.
such as vision, memory, physical capabilities, endurance And then there is the cost of travel. “We frequently have
and driving knowledge. clients that come from the Lakes Region,” Frazier says.
An evaluator then develops a plan for the person, There are organizations that provide financial assis-
whether that is taking a driver’s education course, add- tance to people with disabilities to help cover the cost of
ing adaptive equipment to the vehicle, additional train- a driving evaluation. New Hampshire Vocational Rehabil-
ing with a certified teacher, or whether no further actions itation may provide resources for those who need to have
is needed. the evaluation to work, Scamman says. The NH Council
If someone requires extra training with a driver reha- on Developmental Disabilities also offers limited grants.
bilitation specialist, that can cost upwards of $140 per Specifically, the Council developed an Employment and
hour over and above the driver’s Post-Secondary Education Grant to
course required by the state. provide up to $1,000 to help those
“
Scamman says she knows of a few with disabilities pay for expenses re-
instructors in NH who are working People must lated to employment or educational
toward becoming certified driver have cars to access opportunities, including paying for
”
rehabilitation specialists, and that driver’s education, clothing for job
schooling and interviews, starter trade tools, assis-
should help with the demand for
such services. Scamman, an occupa- employment. tance with completing resumes, cov-
tional therapy assistant, says it took -Vanessa Blais, er letters and job applications, career
her three years to become certified or college exploration consultation
NH Council on
driver rehabilitation specialist and and transportation costs, says Vanes-
Developmental Disabilities
two more years to become certi- sa Blais, director of policy and plan-
fied as a driving instructor. Those ning for the NH Council on Devel-
requirements are why there are so opmental Disabilities. She notes the
few certified driver rehabilitation specialists in the state. Council has only received two grant requests so far to cover
“In some states you can become a driving instructor in a driver’s education evaluations.
week, but, in New Hampshire, it takes two years,” she says. Other organizations Scamman recommends contact-
Scamman says she is consistently booked a month out ing are Granite State Independent Living, Easterseals NH,
and conducts about six evaluations per week. She adds and Gateways Community Services. Scamman says clients
that the pandemic caused demand to spike. have also sought financial assistance through churches,
Lions Clubs, and GoFundMe campaigns. If a student has
Financial Resources a 504 plan, some school districts may pay for the service.
Frazier says between evaluations, purchasing special- If someone was injured on the job, workers comp insur-
ized equipment or vehicles and the actual cost of driver’s ance may pay for the evaluation, Scamman says.
education, it can be expensive for someone with a dis- But cost remains an obstacle, especially if someone
ability to get a driver’s license. An evaluation alone costs doesn’t know how to access these resources. “This is a
2 0 Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023huge barrier for families that have to pay extra for these
evaluations. The state needs to make it more accessible,”
Blais says. “There needs to be way more places in the state
to provide this service. We live in a state with abysmal
public transportation. People must have cars to access
schooling and employment. We need to be better at mak-
ing sure people don’t have barriers to this.”
Frazier says there is a great need for these services. “If Swing for the Stars
is a pediatric therapy center
we weren’t here, the community of people with disabilities offering occupational, physical and
that we have been serving for 23 years would be stuck and speech therapy services to
not have a way to gain that independence that they want children with special needs.
Our services are offered in a warm,
and need,” she says. welcoming environment where
family involvement
in the treatment process is a
priority. Our highly skilled
Call for a FREE phone therapists have a firm
consult with a Certified commitment to providing
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Concord, NH 03301
80 Nashua Rd., Building B, Londonderry, NH • 603-548-2188 • www.premierspeechtherapy.com
We provide compassionate, quality services to people from
early childhood through adulthood and end-of-life care.
Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023 2 1In the Spotlight
Story Corps with the Disability Visibility Project
By Vanessa Blais
Dave Isay dreamed of creating You can now be a part of
a place where we could listen sharing the stories of people
to each other’s story. In 2003, with disabilities with the
he opened the first StoryCorps Disability Visibility Project and
booth in New York’s Grand StoryCorps Connect.
Central Terminal.
Story Corps has evolved into
the largest collection of human
voices ever recorded. These
voices share what it means to
be human in our diverse, ever-
changing world.
2 2 Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023How do I record a story? How do I share the story?
You can record remotely with a friend from 1. Add the keywords
2 separate locations using StoryCorps Connect “Disability Visibility Project”
(disabilityvisibilityproject.com/how-to-
participate/storycorps-connect) 2. Add your story to the StoryCorps
community page for the DVP
You can record a story anytime, anywhere (archive.storycorps.org/communities/
from your smartphone using the disability-visibility-project-2)
StoryCorps App (disabilityvisibilityproject.
com/how-to-participate/oral-histories-with- For more about how to add your story to a
the- storycorps-app) StoryCorps community: (support.storycorps.
me/hc/en-us/sections/115002804847-
If you use a sign language interpreter or Communities)
facilitator when you recorded your story with
the StoryCorps app, the DVP has funds to Watch this video on how to use the
reimburse for those services. StoryCorps app in 5 easy steps.
Details here: http://wp.me/P4H7t1-MKK (https://youtu.be/CW8UDYCV5Oo)
Want to learn more?
• StoryCorps – Stories from people of all
backgrounds and beliefs (storycorps.org)
• Hear Alice Wong talk about the Disability
Invisibility Project and StoryCorps
(youtube.com/watch?v=8bgBOX42WyE)
• Hear Dave talk about StoryCorps
youtube.com/watch?v=QKHk_UiQboA
• Note on Accessibility –
Disability Visibility Project
(disabilityvisibilityproject.com/how-to-
participate/note-on-accessibility)
• How to participate in the Disability Visibility
Project story collection
(disabilityvisibilityproject.com/
how-to-participate)
Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023 2 3Collaborate to Communicate
By Jules Good
P
icture this: Two people sit on a lary and structure among the people need. Being nonspeaking is not an in-
park bench having a conversa- who use it. Some examples of lan- herently bad thing, it just requires dif-
tion about the weather. What guages are English, Spanish, and Swa- ferent support”. In other words, Cole
comes to mind when you think hili. A modality is the means through using an AAC is not a problem, but the
about their conversation? You might which we use that language. Writ- fact that we live in a world where the
imagine them speaking to commu- ing, speaking, listening, reading, and use of AACs is stigmatized makes it so
nicate their thoughts and listening drawing are examples of modalities. that most people have no understand-
to understand what the other per- The most common modalities are ing of how to properly communicate
son is saying. This is how most of us talking and listening. People with dif- with an AAC user. Everyone deserves
have learned about communication, ferent kinds of disabilities may need accurate communication access re-
as a constant volley of talking and to use different modalities to express gardless of the language(s) or modali-
listening. Therefore, it makes sense or receive communication. For ex- ties they use.
that much of our world is connect- ample, Cole Sorensen, a nonspeaking So how exactly do we facilitate ac-
ed through phone calls and spoken Autistic person, uses an Augmenta- cessible communication settings? First,
interactions. But what about those tive and Alternative Communication we have to remember that there is no
of us who are unable to express or (AAC) device to express his thoughts. “one-size-fits-all” solution; everyone’s
receive communication through Instead of talking, Cole uses a digital needs and preferences are different!
talking or hearing? The world is not device with a programmed board of We should aim to create solutions that
designed with our communication icons and phrases; when he taps on are easily adaptable and changeable,
needs in mind. But with thoughtful an icon or phrase, his device will say rather than aiming to create a fixed
creativity and a shift in how we think it out loud. solution. Without flexibility, there
about communication, we can work Many people think that the way will always be unmet needs. When
together to create spaces where ev- Cole communicates is inferior to designing for communication access,
eryone’s communication needs are “normal” spoken English. But Cole we need to think not only about the
met and honored. says, “People don’t lose options for space that people are communicating
Communication has two main communication because they are non- within, but also about best practices
building blocks: language and modal- speaking. They lose options for com- for conversing with a wide variety of
ities. A Language is a system of com- munication because they are not giv- people. Here are some key things to
municating that has shared vocabu- en the communication support they consider in both of these realms:
2 4 Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023Environment/Space you. Do your best to embrace pauses or peoples’ communication choic-
Reduce background noise (music, in conversation. We should cherish es rather than trying to make them
loud fans, etc.). Background noise “awkward silence” as an opportunity communicate in a way that seems
can make it difficult for people to for better communication! more “normal” to us.
hear or process sound, and it can Persevere. Sometimes, commu-
interfere with assistive technology.
Make sure your space is well-lit. MENU nication doesn’t work on the first
try– technology can fail or there can
This helps people who use lip read- be misunderstandings. Be willing to
ing, facial expressions, and signing be repeat yourself or ask others to do
able to see information more clearly. so. Remember that everyone de-
Use pictures and icons to con- serves equitable access to informa-
vey information alongside written tion, and that sometimes we have
words. To the right is an example to try things a few different ways in
of a menu with both pictures and order for that to happen.
words so that people who struggle By understanding the different
with English can still receive accu- ways people communicate and be-
rate information. ing willing to adjust our spaces, at-
titudes, and practices to fit them, we
Accessible Communication can create a world where everyone is
Best Practices able to learn, share, and connect in
Be patient! Sometimes, people Respect peoples’ choices. Some a way that is accessible and respectful
might take a little longer to process people use different modalities at dif- for each person. Let’s work together
what you’ve said and respond back to ferent times. We always need to hon- to build that world!
Create Your Own Desired Future
PathWays works with children, adults, and their families to provide
ongoing, individualized support. PathWays works with local
People First of NH agencies, programs and businesses to provide individuals with
We are a statewide non-profit directed by citizens who meaningful work, recreation, and community life.
experience disability, for the purpose of self-advocacy.
* Early Supports & Services * Participant Directed Services
* Family Support * Enhanced Family Care
* Adult Services * Advocacy
* Employment Options * Family Support Council
Looking For Rewarding Work?
Enjoy making a real difference in someone’s life? We are hiring!
Full and part time openings with flexible schedules &
comprehensive training!
Self-Advocacy
* Service Coordinators * Direct Support Professionals
Leadership Team Visit us * Personal Mentors
Learn more by contacting us at:
www.pathwaysnh.org 603-542-8706
info@PeopleFirstofNH.org For more information email khenning@pathwaysnh.org
Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023 2 5Resource
Guide
The NH Council on Developmental Disabilities
has compiled this listing to help people with
intellectual/developmental disabilities and
their families find the information, services,
and support they need.
A complete version of the resource guide is
available at NHDDresources.wordpress.com or
by calling 603-271-7038.
CONTENTS
I. Information and Referral Services,
Guidebooks and Online Resources
II. Information and Resources on Specific
Disabilities or Topics
• Advocacy and Self-Advocacy
• Assistive Technology
• Autism
• Blind Resources
• Brain Injury
• Bullying
• Children with Disabilities or
Significant Medical Needs
• Deaf and Hard of Hearing
• Dental Services
• Developmental Disabilities and
Acquired Brain Disorders
• Employment
• GED/Adult Education
• Government Benefits and Agencies
• Housing
• Independent Living —
Adults with Physical Disabilities
• Legal Assistance
• Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
• Research and Training
• Transition
• Transportation
2 6 Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023Disability Rights Center – housing, voting and transportation.
Information and Referral
NH (DRC) Online list of state and federal
Services, Guidebooks and
www.drcnh.org government benefit programs for
Online Resources
(603) 228-0432 people with disabilities.
(800) 834-1721 (v/tty)
NH Family Voices Information, referral, advice, NH Statewide Independent
www.nhfv.org and legal representation and Living Council (SILC)
(603) 271-4525 advocacy to individuals with www.silcnh.org/
(800) 852-3345 ext. 4525 disabilities on a wide range of 54 Regional Drive, Suite 5,
(in NH only) disability-related issues. Online Concord, NH 03301
A “Family to Family Health and resources and materials available (603) 271-2773
Education Center” assisting on many disability-related topics. Jennifer.i.beaulieu@gcd.
families of children and young Federally funded Protection and nh.gov or info@silcnh.org
adults with chronic health, Advocacy Center. Provides a monthly resource
physical, developmental, and newsletter, archives of past issues
mental health challenges. Provides ServiceLink Aging & and online “tip sheets” on benefits,
one-to-one phone assistance, Disability Resource Centers housing, and health care, based on
educational materials, online www.servicelink.nh.gov an independent living philosophy.
resources, a lending library, and (866) 634-9412 A federally funded, independent,
quarterly newsletter. Resource Directory: cross-disability council.
www.referweb.net/nhsl/
Maneuvering From local offices throughout NH Family Ties (Formerly
Through the Maze the state, helps individuals access Parent to Parent of NH)
nhfv.org/how-we-can-help/ long-term services, supports and www.communitybridgesnh.
resources resources, access family caregiver org/services/nh-family-ties
A comprehensive resource information, explore options and (800) 499-4153 ext. 241
guide of state health and human understand and access Medicare Provides parent matches between
services agencies, educational and Medicaid. After-hours experienced parents, who have
resources, private associations, and appointments are available as “been there,” with new or referred
organizations that serve people in needed. Callers are connected to parents of children with special
NH with physical, developmental, the ServiceLink office in their area. needs just beginning to meet
mental health and chronic illnesses Funded by the State of NH and the challenges of a disability or
and their families, from birth federal government. chronic health condition. Available
to adulthood. Produced by NH through the area agency network
Family Voices. Brain Injury Association of NH as part of their family support
www.bianh.org services. NH Family Ties provides
Parent Information Center List of resources compiled by the information and referral to
on Special Education (PIC) Brain Injury Association of NH. community resources, services,
picnh.org support groups, state support
54 Old Suncook Road, Governor’s Commission programs, and others.
Concord on Disability
(603) 224-7005, (800) 947-7005 www.nh.gov/disability 2-1-1 NH
Telephone/email support to families 54 Regional Drive, Suite 5, ] www.211nh.org
with questions about early supports Concord, NH 03301 Information and referral for
and services, special education, and (800) 852-3405, (603) 271-2773 general human services including
other disability-related concerns, Provides information on the help with food, emergency
interactive workshops for parents, Americans with Disabilities Act housing, employment, health
volunteer advocate training and (ADA) and accessibility issues, care and counseling is available
informational materials (online including accessible parking spaces, by dialing 211 in NH or (866)
and printed).
Stepping Stones NH • 2022-2023 2 7You can also read
