Empowering Connections: Dana Charlton on Advocacy, OSDA, and Self-Advocacy Strategies

Nick Speaks

Nick Speaks is a podcast dedicated to empowering adults and young people with disabilities. Join me as I share insights and experiences from my own journey of self-discovery and advocacy. Tune in and find your voice!

Empowering Connections: Dana Charlton on Advocacy, OSDA, and Self-Advocacy Strategies

S1 E15 • Dec 3, 2024 • 40 mins

Join Nicolas Comstock as he introduces Dana Charlton, who shares her inspiring journey in the disability community. Dana discusses her early teaching experiences, the significance of advocacy, and her transition to OSDA, highlighting efforts in community integration. Discover OSDA's impact and Project STIR's role in leadership advocacy training. The episode delves into the Synergy Conference's themes of empowerment and collaboration, offering strategies for self-advocacy and understanding support systems. Dana shares insights on overcoming doubts and embracing independence. Nicolas wraps up with gratitude and a teaser for the next episode.

Key Points

Building connections is crucial for people with disabilities to access opportunities and support.
The Ohio Self Determination Association (OSDA) offers Project STIR training to help individuals with disabilities find their voice and advocate for themselves.
Self-determination and assertiveness are essential for individuals with disabilities to achieve greater independence and quality of life.

Dana Charlton, the executive director of the Ohio Self-Determination Association (OSDA). https://osdaohio.org/contact/

Speakers

Dana Charlton

Guest • 69%

Nicolas Comstock

Host • 31%

Chapters

0:00	Introduction to Dana Charlton and the importance of connections
2:10	Dana Charlton's journey into the disability field and early teaching experiences
7:18	The importance of connections and advocacy in the disability community
11:52	Deinstitutionalization and the transition to OSDA
18:06	Advocacy efforts and community integration through OSDA
22:45	Reflections on a career in the disability field and OSDA's impact
29:10	Project STIR and leadership advocacy training
31:32	The Synergy Conference: Empowerment and collaboration
34:20	Strategies for self-advocacy and understanding support systems
38:07	Overcoming doubts and embracing independent choices
39:39	Closing remarks and gratitude to Dana Charlton
40:02	Teaser for next week's episode and sign-off

Transcript

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