Vision

Empowerment and Independence

Every year the coordinators are free to take each issue area in a direction that is individual and unique to their FYSOP experience.  This year, we chose to work with the idea of empowerment and independence for people living with disabilities.

We want to look into the different ways in which people living with disabilities can lead just as meaningful and productive lives as those living without disabilities.  We hope to do this through looking at how new assistive technologies are merging with tried and true therapies.  These technologies range from low-tech to high-tech and include advances in prosthetics, new studies with iPads and home adaptation programs, and alternative communication devices, which are changing the lives of those living with disabilities.

In addition to researching how assistive technologies empower those living with disabilities, we are looking into how animals help to provide independence.  Guide dogs, therapeutic riding centers, and even helper monkeys are leading those living with disabilities down a new path toward increased freedom and dignity.

We hope to continue to raise awareness of this issue area as we work towards another amazing FYSOP.  By researching and learning more about the different types of disabilities and the challenges that people living with disabilities face, we aim to increase familiarity with this diverse issue area.