Ability Radio

Episode 28 - John Abramson Jr., on making your vote count and fulfilling your civic duty to enhance and protect the USVI

John Abramson Jr. and Amelia LaMont discuss the importance of voting and how when you vote, you are a member of the jury that decides who is in charge of improving the territory and supporting our rights. They explain how citizens can fulfill their civic duties to enhance and uphold the US Virgin Islands Territory by volunteering and participating in civic-minded organizations. 2024 is an election year, register to vote today!

Episode 27 - Guest DeJongh “Dee” Wells Virgin Islands' Sneaker Historian on youth empowerment and using STEAM skills to follow your dreams

Guest DeJongh "Dee" Wells and Kishma Francis talk about turning your passion into a career and how to create your own story as your journey continues. 

He tells his story, starting in St. John, USVI, about developing your space in a niche you already know and loves. Dee successfully created several businesses and organizations from the feet up as a "kiskstorian" or "sneaker historian," who uses his knowledge of athletic footwear in a series of organizations and businesses that, among many other lessons, teach others how to gain and utilize STEAM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Arts, and Math) Skills.

Check out SOLEcial Studies Community Academy at https://solecialstudies.com/  and follow his social media @DeeWellsOSD on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and Tik Tok. 

Learn more about the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands (DRCVI) and find parent resources at www.DRCVI.org or (340) 772-1200 or (340) 776-4303. DRCVI's Youth Empowerment Leadership Program is a class that is currently on the schedule at US Virgin Islands Department of Education High Schools and expansion plans are underway for the 2024-2025 school year. 

 

Episode 26 - Errol Chichester, Plant Enthusiast let's know how to plant a successful food garden in the Virgin Islands & why it's so important

Errol Chichester, plant enthusiast, joins Amelia to talk about tropical fruits and other plants that grow well here in the U.S. Virgin Islands to encourage our people to start and maintain a garden to supplement their intake of imported food. He shares valuable tips and tricks - from which plants thrive here, where to plant them, and how to water and feed them. 

We discuss what plants do well in the USVI, the steps to start a farm or garden, and educational programs. He also updates us about the citrus situation in the territory and beyond. 

Episode 25 -DRCVI 2023 Highlights

In this episode, the DRCVI staff talk about what we do as a protection and advocacy organization as they highlight our 2023 initiatives and successes. They also talk about what you can expect in 2024. 

Episode 24 - Guest Magali De Jesús Cordero of AMSI and Shammi Carr, DRCVI Advocate, Discuss SSA Ticket to Work, SSDI, ADA, OVR, Job Accommodations

"Magali De Jesús Cordero of The AMSI Employment Network talks about the SSA "Ticket to Work Program" for people who are on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). She outlines how you can work part-time and stay on SSDI or transition to self-sufficiency, if it's right for your situation.

DRCVI Advocate, Shammi Carr, explains how DRCVI assists job seekers who are disabled by helping them navigate their rights and responsibilities, accommodations made available through ADA laws, job skills readiness and how to access assistive technology with the help of The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR).

Resources referenced in the episode:

• DRCVI Community Resource Employment Guide
• A Guide to Onet Online; La Guía de ONET Online-Español
• DRCVI Voc Rehab Quick Guide
• The Vocational Rehabilitation Program Fact Sheet
• The Vocational Rehabilitation Program VR Time Line
  
  
• To schedule an initial appointment with a Work Incentive Planning and Assistance (WIPA) Benefits Advisor in Puerto Rico (VI will be referenced), call the Beneficiary Hotline at 1-866-968-7842. 

• 787-784-5329 ext. 3009 Magadali De Jesus
  
  
• DRCVI (340) 772-1200

 

Episode 23 - Dr. Rita Dudley-Grant and Mario Capriola of Island Therapy Solutions

Dr. Rita Dudley-Grant introduces us to "Radical Acceptance" by giving us noteworthy tips on starting in the present moment, accepting where you are, and then moving forward from there to lead a happy, peaceful life - where you can "let it be" and recognize that health comes from within without blame and criticism. 

Mario Capriola discusses what happens during the first mental health intake interview appointments, how to get started with therapy, and where to get emergency help. He also explains how to incorporate SMART goals into your life - and how small steps can lead to big results. 

They explain how their doors are open to everyone and how they address behavioral health and developmental concerns to improve their patients' lives through therapies, medicines, and supports like Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

Dr. Rita Dudley-Grant, Ph.D., MPH, ABPP, is the Clinical Community Outreach Coordinator for Island Therapy Solutions, a licensed clinical psychologist. She is also the past president and founding Association of Virgin Islands Psychologists (AVIP) member.

Mario Capriola is an ITS Masters Intern therapist currently studying in The Master of Arts in Psychology program at The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI). 

Episode 22 - Tracy Sanders of Continuum Care Discusses End of Living Care and Hospice

Tracy Sanders, founder of Continuum Care, discusses Hospice Care and End of Life Living. From comfort and supportive care for the patient to managing the details for the patient's caregivers, the goal is to follow individual plans of care respecting the wishes of the patient and their family.

Episode 21 - Rebecca Russell, Parent Advocate for the Down Syndrome Community

Rebecca Russell explains how her son, who has Down syndrome aka. Trisomy 21 inspired her to teach other parents how to advocate for their children's health, education, and inclusion. We discuss prejudices, finding support and understanding, The Buddy Walk, the importance of early intervention, special education rights and resources - including IEPs, Vocational Rehabilitation, and more!