Event Announcement: "Feeling Welcome: The Importance of Belonging"

Hi all,

I received this e-mail/event announcement from Dan Wilkins, PR at The Ability Center of Greater Toledo. Derrick Dufresne is an excellent speaker. I've had the pleasure of hearing him speak and hope to attend this event as well. Please pass on to others who may be interested. Thanks!

Here it is:

Attached please find a flyer announcing a presentation on December 17 by Derrick Dufresne. If you attended the January 28th gathering we hosted at the Secor Rd. Ramada Inn, you may have already heard Derrick’s message related to the impact of loneliness in our communities. However, we hope you will be able to join us on December 17 as we continue to expand our effort to promote inclusive communities.

Please forward this announcement to colleagues and encourage them to attend also.

Thank you for being a Partner for Community Inclusion.

Sincerely,

Dan Wilkins

Director of Public Relations and Community Partnerships

The Ability Center of Greater Toledo

5605 Monroe Street

Sylvania, OH 43560

419-885-5733

866-885-5733 (toll-free)

419-290-6377 (cell)

In January, 2010, at our first meeting with area partners, we were reminded that “Loneliness Kills”; that a person living in isolation, without social connections and the benefits that come from community and belonging, lives a shorter, less healthy life. We learned the average individual in society can count around 150 people as friends and
acquaintances, while a person with a significant disability can count only about 15. Of thesemost are paid to be with them. On December 17th, we will be having another conversation with Derrick Dufresne. He will revisit the issues of Loneliness and Social Capital and the impact they have on all members of the community, including those living with disability. He will also share a few local success stories born out of that initial gathering. If you would like to have a refresher on these topics or have fellow employees or friends who you feel would benefit from this information,
please join us.
** There is no charge for this event.

Feeling Welcome: The Importance of Belonging
A Conversation with Derrick Dufresne
Where: Ward Pavilion, Wildwood Metropark,
4830 W. Central Avenue, Toledo, 43615
Use the east entrance off Central just West of Corey.
When: December 17, 9 to 11am
Who should attend: Anyone with an interest in developing inclusive communities.
Please RSVP: Lisa Justice: 419.885.5733, ext 237, or ljustice@abilitycenter.org
no later than Dec 10

** There is no charge for this event. Coffee, bagels, and juice will be available.
Please share this announcement with others who are interested in creating inclusive communities.

Event Sponsored and Supported by:
For Derrick’s Bio and Vision:
http://www.craconferences.com/

Blessings:)
Amy