Today, February 7, I had the pleasure of speaking to the Arizona Partners in Policymaking (PIP) ’14-’15 class sponsored by Pilot Parents of Tucson. Not only is this group close to my heart because I am a PIP alumnus myself and it’s a honor to be asked back as a presenter, but the majority of the participants are ones I most enjoy encouraging– parents of young kids with disabilities. I know that may seem strange, but here’s why: I’ve discovered just how intensely they can worry about their children’s future roles in society and it’s a distinct blessing to be a real-life example of what achievements are possible.
Those I met today were extremely welcoming and eager to learn from my experiences. They asked some new, very thoughtful questions, which was a ton of fun! Topics of inquiry ranged from my favorite assistive technology devices and communication apps from Assistive Ware to my experiences at ASU and my current daily living routines. I’ve always said I’ll answer anything because you never know when something that seems insignificant to me may be the sign or solution at the heart of an audience member’s prayers. It’s always the best part of a presentation day when my first round of Q & A spurs on a second, even more in depth batch of questions and with my responses dawns a visible light of hope on all the participants’ faces. I know I’ve done my job when someone thanks me with, “you’ve given me so many new ideas for my kids!”
I hope I’ll get to help them share their stories someday!
“With God all things are possible” – Matthew 19:26
A couple of the attendees asked me if they could have a copy of my presentation, so the written speech and PowerPoint slides can be downloaded by clicking the link below. Enjoy!
Brooke Brown’s PIP Presentation Folder
Brooke's Butterfly Touch: Creative Storytelling Services 
Leave a comment