People First: Opportunities... Choices... Dreams

Doug Hovey, Independent Living, Inc.'s Executive Director, speaks about "Opportunities" or lack thereof for people with disabilities.

"Thank goodness you are here to support us today," said Executive Director, Doug Hovey. "Your contributions will ensure that Independent Living, Inc. will be here in the future to serve your needs and those of your loved ones."

More than 200 friends, supporters and local dignitaries attended our first annual fundraising breakfast at Anthony's Pier 9 on Wednesday, October 1, 2008, which was sponsored by Provident Bank and Ryan Insurance/Ulster Savings Bank.

Speaking about the organization's efforts to serve people of all ages with disabilities of all kinds, Executive Director Hovey recounted success stories, and outlined some of the many unfilled needs in our community. "We are serving about 57 students in 3 school districts, but the sad fact is that there are 19 school districts in Orange County and thousands of students we are unable to assist as they transition from high school to adult life due to lack of funding," said Hovey. "The unemployment rate for individuals with disabilities is a staggering 71%, but it's not because these individuals cannot or do not want to work. We are here to help employers and individuals to overcome the physical and attitudinal barriers that prevent people with disabilities from full inclusion in community life."

"People First" testimonial by Cara at Independent Living, Inc.'s first annual fundraising breakfast on October 1, 2008

Poignant testimonials from individuals who have benefited from programs offered at Independent Living, Inc. illustrated the theme of the breakfast event, "People First: Opportunities...Choices...Dreams." Presentations by members of Independent Living's board of directors reminded attendees that one in five Americans has a disability, and only fifteen percent of people with disabilities were born with them.

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