We are now a few weeks into this new year. Right now some good questions to ask might be “What did we accomplish last year? Are we better off in any way than we were 365 days ago? What can we do in this new year we have embarked upon to improve our lives and the way we live?” Better yet, what can we do to improve the lives of others, especially those with disabilities?
The dictionary describes an “advocate” as one who publicly supports or suggests an idea, development or way of doing something.
Here at Mays Mission, our primary goal is to aid and assist people with disabilities. Yes, putting to work those who may have difficulty finding gainful employment is one facet of our purpose yet there is so much more.
Public education regarding the abilities and capabilities of people with disabilities is of utmost importance. You see, through our various programs and direct mail, we have the opportunity to inform and educate the public throughout the country that given the opportunity, people with disabilities can become productive citizens.
We have seen scores of people with a variety of disabilities come and go here at Mays Mission while others have chosen to stay with us. It’s heartwarming to know that some have bought their own homes, learned to drive and purchased automobiles, while some have moved on to bigger and better opportunities. Seeing people succeed and become more independent where at one time hope seemed lost is an indescribable feeling.
We’ve set out goal; to aid and assist people with disabilities. Won’t you please join us? Email us at info@maysmission.org to learn more about our programs and see how you can be an advocate for people with disabilities this year. And your comments are always welcome in the comment section. Thanks!
As our founder E.W. Mays said, “We have only begun our work.” Great strides have been made over the past five decades – about the time Mays Mission was founded. We have seen the passage of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, andthe Americans with Disabilities Act. Yet statistics show a vast majority of disabled individuals cannot find employment.
We feel that most employers meet the disability before they meet the person – that is to say that we, as humans, have a terrible habit of “judging a book by it’s cover,” assuming that an individual with an obvious disability is not suited for employment or simply cannot do the job. How wrong we are.
We encourage you to ask an employer if they have considered hiring individuals with disabilities. You could be the one that makes a difference in the life of a physically or mentally challenged individual.
If you would like more information, please call us at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org. Let’s all help make an employer aware of the potential of people with disabilities.
Here at Mays Mission, we love to receive Christmas cards from our friends. We tape them up on the walls for decoration so everyone can enjoy them. Many of the Christmas cards will have the manger scene which almost always includes the star above the manger. Some will have the three wise men, or Magi, or kings, bringing their gifts to baby Jesus. But just who are those three guys? We did a little research just so we can tell you what we learned about them.
The Bible tells about these “Magi” in Matthew. Here’s what we know for certain:
They were astrologers.
They came from the east.
They recognized the new star as fulfillment of ancient prophecy proclaiming that the long-awaited Messiah had finally come to earth. They traveled thousands of miles to bring gifts to the new-born Messiah and to worship him.
That’s about it! Tradition and history can add some possibilities of great interest concerning these Magi. The Magi were a religious caste and one of the six tribes of Media (an ancient kingdom located in what is now northern Iran). Our modern day word magician comes from the magi because they were known for practicing magic. They also interpreted omens and dreams and offered astrological sacrifices. Before Jesus, they worshiped only the elements, fire, air, earth and water, especially fire.
We don’t really know how many of them there were. Scholars based the “three” on their three gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh they brought with them to give to baby Jesus. These men were truly wise men because they went looking for God. They didn’t expect God to come looking for them. They recognized baby Jesus as the Messiah for the entire world—not just for the Jews. They took gifts to the Messiah—they didn’t expect God to give them gifts.
Those who are wise still seek and worship Jesus today, not for what they can get—but for who He is.
The family of Mays Mission wishes you and your family a Merry Christmas. If you would like to help us advocate on behalf of individuals with disabilities in your area call us or email us at info@maysmission.org and we can send you free brochures to pass out in your community. These brochures were produced by individuals with disabilities here at Mays Mission.
It’s that time of year again – the Christmas season. The brightly colored autumn leaves have fallen to the ground, announcing a time of rest and relaxation for many living things. We’ve stuffed ourselves with juicy Thanksgiving turkey and loads of luscious desserts from our bountiful buffets. People are putting up the Christmas decorations and the malls are calling for us to come and shop.
In all the hustle and bustle, let’s not forget the “reason for the season,” the birth of Jesus. He came to us just as foretold by prophets of old (Isaiah 7:14). Without his birth, there would have been no atonement for sin. We would still be sacrificing bulls, lambs and doves – presenting our sins to a high priest once a year. If He hadn’t come we would be unable to enter the most holy place – the throne room of God – are present out prayers and petitions (Hebrews 4:15, 16). He came that we might have abundant life (John 10:10).
As we enter this holiday season, let’s not forget those who might have difficulty getting out and about. Offer a ride to a friend with a disability or someone who may have difficulty navigating a shopping center or mall. Offer to shop for someone who may be unable to get out for whatever reason. A little kindness and friendliness and a show of care and compassion may be just the ticket to make someone’s Christmas time a little more stress-free.
I can think of no better verse – no better gift, than what is the quoted scripture: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believes on Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
God bless you all! And thank you for supporting people with disabilities!
It may seem like a trite statement to say that “we have so much to be thankful for,” as we hear it every year around the Thanksgiving dinner table. Yet, for the vast majority of US citizens, this statement holds undeniably true. We live in a land birthed in freedom from tyranny that continues on to this day.
Some friends of mine have a tradition of going to a “food kitchen” on Thanksgiving Day to assist in serving the homeless and those who just can’t afford a hot meal. They tell me of how humbling it is to see these folks wander in off the streets for a hot meal. It makes them feel so blessed to have a roof over their head and food on the table. In doing the kind deed of helping others, just as Christ told us to do, they come away from the food kitchen feeling abundantly blessed for being obedient to the call of serving.
In hearing this, let’s consider doing likewise. It doesn’t necessarily need to be a food kitchen. There are a myriad of ways to serve your fellow man in this day or any other day to give thanks for the bounty with which God has blessed you. Invite someone over for a meal. Offer to take them shopping or to get to an appointment. Run some errands for them. Invite them to church. Often just a smile or a handshake will brighten someone’s day!
There are countless ways to “love your neighbor.” Think about what you could do, then put those thoughts into action.
If you would like information on disabilities, please call 888-503-7955, write, or email info@maysmission.org. We have a variety of brochures that we offer at no charge.
This article was written by special guest writer Ed Carter. You can check out Ed’s website athttps://ablefutures.org/
As more diverse voices are recognized for their importance in shaping inclusive policies, individuals with disabilities who choose to run for public office demonstrate significant courage and the potential for transformative change. The unique perspectives that candidates with disabilities bring to politics not only enhance the democratic process but also foster societal change that values diversity. However, this journey presents challenges. Navigating the legal requirements set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and creating compelling narratives for voters are crucial skills for aspiring political leaders with disabilities.
Championing Inclusivity The ADA’s Empowerment in Elections
Before embarking on your campaign journey, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the protections offered by the ADA. This pivotal law ensures that individuals with disabilities have the same opportunities to participate in the electoral process as any other candidate. Title II of the ADA mandates that state and local governments provide complete and equal access at every voting stage, from registration to casting ballots. This includes ensuring physical accessibility to polling sites and modifying policies that might marginalize or disadvantage disabled candidates. Understanding these rights helps you navigate the electoral landscape more effectively and reinforces the broader mission of inclusivity in our democratic system.
Unleashing Your Personal Story in Leadership
Your personal story is a powerful tool in your campaign arsenal. By sharing your journey of overcoming challenges, you can highlight your resilience and leadership qualities. This approach showcases your strengths and the rich experiences that inform your leadership style. For example, you effectively challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity by focusing on positive narratives that emphasize achievements rather than limitations. This advocates for yourself and inspires and empowers others within the disability community.
Crafting a Voice: Navigating Political Press Releases
When preparing a press release for your campaign, ensure it’s newsworthy and strategically structured to capture attention. Begin by identifying key issues important to your candidacy, highlighting these at the start to engage your audience immediately. Emphasize your political platform and qualifications, addressing why you are the best candidate for the position. To maintain reader interest, incorporate concise and objective language, steering clear of exaggerated claims. Using press release services and including relevant quotes from the candidate or campaign spokesperson can significantly enhance the release’s impact.
Financial Pathways: Unlocking Support for Disabled Candidates
Financing a campaign can be daunting, but resources are available specifically for disabled political aspirants. Exploring grants and financial aid can significantly alleviate the monetary challenges of campaigning. Many organizations offer targeted support to help cover expenses related to accessibility requirements, such as adaptive technologies or transportation costs. Identifying these financial resources reduces the burden on personal funds and empowers you to focus on your political message and advocacy. By leveraging available financial aid, you can enhance your campaign’s reach and effectiveness, paving the way for a more representative political landscape.
Accessibility in Action: Making Campaigns Inclusive for All
Adopting accessible campaign strategies is crucial to fostering inclusivity both for yourself and those you aim to represent. Comprehensive web accessibility can significantly enhance engagement by ensuring potential supporters with disabilities can easily navigate your campaign materials online. Notably, the 2024 presidential campaigns have highlighted the importance of addressing website accessibility early. Understanding that political affiliation does not significantly differ among people with disabilities further underscores the need for campaigns to transcend political divides through inclusive practices. Prioritizing accessibility in your digital marketing strategies can set a positive precedent and elevate your campaign’s effectiveness, ultimately reaching a broader audience.
Building Bridges: Partnering with Advocacy Groups for Impact
Building connections with local disability advocacy groups is a strategic move. These groups offer invaluable insights into the pressing issues affecting your community, given that approximately 49 million Americans are living with disabilities. By partnering with these organizations, you align yourself with a collective voice striving for equal rights and opportunities, which are essential components of a successful campaign platform. Moreover, local advocacy groups often possess extensive networks and experience in mobilizing grassroots support, which can significantly enhance your visibility and credibility.
The Impact of Representation: Diverse Leaders in Public Office
Recognizing the profound impact of diverse representation in public office is vital. Leaders from varied backgrounds enrich decision-making processes with many perspectives, leading to solutions that address the needs of the entire spectrum of society. Research indicates that when elected officials share experiences with their constituents, it fosters greater trust and engagement with the government. As the American populace becomes increasingly diverse, governmental bodies must reflect this diversity to build community trust and participation.
As the journey of running for office unfolds for individuals with disabilities, it becomes a narrative of resilience, innovation, and transformative leadership. Each step challenges the status quo and builds a more inclusive future where diverse voices hold power. By embracing the strategies outlined—from leveraging legal rights and personal narratives to securing financial resources and championing accessibility—candidates can redefine what it means to lead and represent. Through their candidacies, they do not merely aspire to enter public office; they trailblaze paths for upcoming generations, creating a political landscape that reflects the rich tapestry of human experience.
Discover how Mays Mission for the Handicapped has been empowering individuals with disabilities for over 50 years—visit us to learn more about our life-changing programs and how you can support our mission!
It is a time to recognize the contributions of Americans with disabilities and to encourage all citizens to ensure equal opportunity in the workforce. It is a time to recognize that people with disabilities have equal or higher job retention, lower absenteeism, and that their job performance is equal to their non-disabled counterparts. It is a time to urge employers to hire persons with disabilities. How can you do this? Call at 888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org and we will be happy to send you free brochures like on “On-the-Job Training”, which you can share with employers in your area. These brochures were printed by employees with disabilities here at Mays Mission and they would appreciate your advocacy.
We can’t say enough about the importance of volunteerism. Ask any hospital, nonprofit organization or civic related agency and they will attest to the fact that volunteerism is their backbone, strength and support.
Volunteers do everything from answering the phone to driving busses and anything in between. Even professionals such as doctors, dentists and counselors often provide their services to clinics that offer care to low income families and individuals. Lawyers and paralegals often devote a certain amount of their time to those who could not afford their services on a walk-in basis. Volunteers often get out and do the leg-work that administrators just don’t have the time to do.
There are a vast variety of volunteer opportunities in every community. One of the advantages of giving your time is the array of work to do. Whatever your talents are, more than likely an organization in your community would be willing to put you to work using your skills.
So, what do you need to do to find out if you can assist an organization in your community? It’s as simple as calling and asking. Better yet, go to the agency and ask them personally if there is something you can do.
Looking for something a little out of the ordinary? Call your state office of volunteerism. They should be able to give you a variety of places that are always looking for people to assist. You can also turn to the Internet. Just type in the state or city you live in along with the word “volunteerism.”
Helping others is always rewarding. Become a volunteer today. You will see new faces, make new friends and feel better about yourself for what you’ve done for others from your heart!
If you would like more information call us at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org for a free copy of our brochure “The Spirit Of Volunteerism” today and please feel free to share in the comments section. Thanks!
We are all brought into this world with our own unique set of circumstances. Some are born into wealth and prosperity while some are born into poverty; some short and some tall; some with a natural ability to excel in certain areas while others struggle to make the grade. Whatever the situation might be, no two individuals are alike.
As we meander through life’s intriguing journey, there usually comes a time when we all decide we are ready for a change. Whatever it might be, more likely than not, the change will not be instantaneous or easy.
Change usually takes time and most definitely a conscious effort. Whether it’s habits, lifestyle; physical, mental or spiritual the decision to change will require a different way of thinking and a lot of patience.
With the disabled, changes never seem to come fast enough. Often the change we are looking for is a cure or miracle drug or procedure that will propel us into mainstream of life. Like everyone else, patience is the key.
Unfortunately, change doesn’t always come. Sometimes we just have to live with the hand that’s been dealt us. We can sit and mope and wallow in self-pity or we can make that conscious decision to make the best of what we have. Anyone can do nothing-physically fit or disabled. It takes a sound mind and a lot of heart to say, “No matter what my circumstances are, I am going to make the best of what God has given me and trust that he will see me through.”
Change isn’t always easy and sometimes impossible but we always have a choice in attitude. Attitude toward change and life’s circumstances makes all the difference in the world! Now how’s your attitude?
If you would like free brochures to pass out in your community and help raise awareness on behalf of individuals with disabilities, call us or email us at info@maysmission.org and we would be glad to send some to you.
In recognition of National Make a Will Month this August, we would like to share a few words about estate planning and being prepared. You never know what life has in store and not being prepared for the future without an estate plan—a will and possibly a living trust—is a mistake that can have serious financial and emotional consequences for those you care about. But the reality is that anticipating life events—expected and unexpected—can be challenging, and planning is easy to put off. However, if you don’t have a will, the state decides who receives your assets. This means your long-term wishes may not be carried out, and your loved ones and the organizations you care about may be left out.
Making effective plans can result in significant savings in both time and unnecessary expenses that could reduce the value of your estate. And they bring peace of mind by ensuring that your intentions will be fulfilled. Here are some of the advantages of having an estate plan:
You can ensure your documents are up to date, in order and, most importantly, easily accessible.
A will can take care of children or adult family members and manage property left to them through a will.
People in your life for whom you feel responsible and/or wish to remember can be gifted property you own, including homes, automobiles, securities, jewelry and other assets.
You can name an executor to manage your estate rather than leave the decision to the probate court.
Gifts can be made in the most tax-efficient manner. Certain assets in your estate may have different tax consequences for loved ones.
Gifts to charity in your will can continue the support given during your lifetime.
It is important that all your assets, including your life insurance, retirement benefits and jointly owned property, be coordinated in your single, overall estate plan. Your will alone cannot do the job because it controls the disposition of only certain assets. Your life insurance will pass to your named beneficiary. Your retirement benefits will go to the named beneficiary and, of course, jointly owned property will go automatically to the survivor.
If you would like more information on estate planning and making or revising your will, we have several free brochures we could send you at no cost to help in your preparations. Just call or email us at info@maysmission.org and let us know.
