Ability Radio

Host Angus Drigo speaks with Terrell Alexandre, Deputy Supervisor of Elections for St. Croix, about the primary and general 2026 elections. They cover early voting schedules and locations, registration options (online and in-person), absentee ballots, and contact information for election offices, including their website. The episode emphasizes accessibility for voters with disabilities, explaining assistive voting machines, the option to bring a helper, transportation resources, how to report access issues, and how to access DRCVI's voting information page. It also mentions voter outreach events and dates for machine demonstrations and a 2026 Elections Expo.

This episode explains the differences between guardianship and self-determination, outlines the guardianship court process, and explores less restrictive options like supported decision‑making and powers of attorney. Hosts Kishma B. Francis and Jasmine Barmer share practical guidance on when to begin planning, how families can advocate during the IEP transition process, and where to find local support from organizations such as: The Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands,  The Family Resource Center, The Virgin Islands Association for Independent Living And national organizations:  NEPACT RAISE Center

This episode of Ability Radio explains special education services, IEP teams and timelines, and the difference between an IEP diploma and a general high school diploma. Hosts Kishma B. Francis, Esq., VIPTI Director, and Jasmine Barmer, J.D., advocate and former teacher, speak with advocate and author Rebecca Russell about eligibility, accommodations, transition planning, and how parents can advocate for appropriate, individualized education pathways for their children. IEP Made Easy! Understanding and Advocating for Your Child: Individualized Education Plan (IEP) - Hands-on Workbook for more information and a link to order Rebecca's book. Call DRCVI at (340) 772-1200 or learn more at the Virgin Islands Parent Information & Training Center (VIPTI) website.

Host Amelia Headley-Lamont speaks with Vanessa Hinds, Veteran, founder, and instructor of Bead on a Wire, about how jewelry making helped her manage chronic pain and grew into a thriving St. Croix studio. Vanessa describes her classes and workshops—wire wrapping, chain mail, beading, polymer clay—along with free Wednesday classes for seniors and veterans, jewelry clinics for students, and social craft days that build community and improve focus and fine motor skills. The episode highlights the shop’s local impact, tourist visits, remote shopping options, student entrepreneurship, and Vanessa’s plans to expand teaching opportunities and foster small-business skills among young people.

This episode features Genevieve Whitaker, president and co-founder of the Virgin Islands Youth Advocacy Coalition and executive director of the Virgin Islands Board for Career and Technical Education. She discusses the coalition’s work uniting youth ages 14–30, civic education, voter engagement, and intergenerational projects like the Digital Bridge Initiative. The conversation also covers upcoming financial literacy programs, the Money Moves gaming app, opportunities for youth delegates to international forums, and how listeners can join or support the coalition.

Author and activist James Harrington discusses lessons from The Texan Civil Rights ProjectTexas Civil Rights Project, emphasizing the critical importance of local voting, organized house meetings, and creative grassroots tactics to win lasting change — from better judges to accessible public spaces. He highlights community policing reforms, ways to engage young leaders, the supportive role lawyers should play in organizing, and practical aid for immigrant families (powers of attorney, grocery and medical delivery), closing with a call to persistent, community-led action.

Mixed-media artist Rebecca Robinson shares how a Creative Renewal residency at CMC Arts in St. Croix helped her heal after her father’s passing and reignited her creativity, inspired in part by learning to scuba dive and her love of the ocean. Rebecca describes teaching children storytelling through eco-conscious sculpture projects, guiding teens in entrepreneurship and branding, and reflecting on art’s power for personal transformation, community connection, and environmental stewardship.

Amelia Headly-LaMont interviews James Harrington - lawyer, activist, adjunct professor, and author - bout his decades of community organizing, landmark litigation, and building the Texas Civil Rights Project. Harrington discusses organizing farm workers in Texas and Michigan, winning workers' compensation and unemployment coverage, advancing ADA access, and the enduring power of house meetings over social media for sustained social change. The episode also highlights Harrington’s recent volunteer work helping immigrant families with powers of attorney and notes his book, The Texas Civil Rights Project: How We Built a Social Justice Movement. 

Host Kishma B. Francis interviews Diana Autin, Senior Program Director at SPAN Parent Advocacy Network, about the vital role parents play as advocates for children and youth with disabilities. They discuss practical advocacy skills, the importance of support groups, and top resources like ParentCenterHub.org, disability-specific organizations, and local services through the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. The episode also covers training, peer support, preparing youth for self-advocacy, and how parents can access help via the DRCVI website (www.drcvi.org), phone (340-776-4303), and the DRCVI YouTube channel.

Host Kishma B. Francis interviews Tarik McMillan of Greater Changes about their Bright Path Wellness Center, community programs, and plans to expand mental health and wellness services across the Virgin Islands. The episode highlights fitness and wellness classes, family events, the new DARRI Book Club literacy initiative, efforts to reduce stigma around mental health, and how residents can access free consultations and services. Listeners are invited to connect with Greater Changes at greaterchangesllc.com or 833-409-3474 and with the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands at drcvi.org or 340-776-4303 for partnerships and resources.

Coach Kie Ransom Mahler shares her lifelong journey as a swimmer and instructor, the importance of Black representation in aquatic education, and how swimming can boost brain development and confidence. She explains practical water-safety tips, the silent nature of drowning, local lifeguard resources, and community challenges like water quality and marine protection. Learn about adaptive classes for children with sensory needs, how to contact Kai ([email protected] or Kie Kai Aquatics on Facebook), and where lessons are offered on St. Croix.

In this episode of Ability Radio, Dr. Julia Sheen, Executive Director of the Virgin Islands Diabetes Center of Excellence, discusses the rising diabetes rates in the territory, prevention strategies, community outreach, and the Center’s services including mobile screenings, nutrition classes, medication management, pediatric care, and telemedicine. She emphasizes cultural factors, the importance of regular testing, family awareness, healthy eating, daily physical activity, and how the Center supports patients with education, treatment, and transportation to improve outcomes. Home - VI Diabetes Center of Excellence

You are listening to Ability Radio with Amelia Headley Lamont and guests Angus Drigo, Kishma Francis, and Archie Jennings of the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. They outline 2026 priorities for DRCVI and the VI Parent Training Institute (VIPTI), one of nearly 100 parent training and information centers in the United States. The plans include teen mental health initiatives, youth empowerment, IEP and 504 trainings, anti-bullying and art therapy programs, DARRI's Book Club, and more! The team also talks about DRCVI's affiliation with the Northeast ADA Center and upcoming collaborations with local organizations. 

In this episode, Amelia Headly-LaMont speaks with Monique Bute, Director of the Virgin Islands Association for Independent Living (Center for Independent Living), about the independent living movement and the center’s mission to promote civil rights and independence for people with disabilities. They outline the center’s five core services—advocacy, independent living skills training, information and referrals, peer support/peer counseling/mentorship, and transition services from school or institutions—give real examples of peer support and accessible accommodations and emphasize person-first language and equal access. Services are generally free; the center hosts regular mutual-aid MASH meetings and welcomes volunteers. Contact: St. Thomas 340-777-4978, St. Croix 340-778-7992, email [email protected], website independentlivingvi.org.

Hosts Amelia Headley-Lamont and guests Angus Drigo (Executive Director), Archie Jennings (Assistant Executive & Litigation Director), and Kishma Francis (Project Director) recap the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands’ work in 2025. The episode covers the center’s advocacy mission, ADA enforcement, monitoring visits, the mental health consent decree, employment initiatives, and community projects such as a little library and a hygiene program serving about 2,000 people. Listeners hear about partnerships with local organizations, the State Rehab Council’s inclusive employment needs assessment, and youth and family-focused programs from the Parent Training and Information Center. The conversation highlights challenges, legal work, outreach, and plans for continuing community engagement in 2026.

Host Amelia Headly Lamont interviews Rebekah Kubla, communications manager at the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands, about her role since joining in 2023. They discuss social media algorithms and media bias, the power of plain language, recent advances in sign language access, and how AI and assistive technologies can both improve accessibility and raise privacy concerns. 

Amelia Headly Lamont interviews Rudean Leinaeng, a chemist, college professor, and author, about her life in science, her teaching and research (including work on lead in Bronx Zoo animals), and a film her son is making, "My Mother, the Scientist," to inspire more people of color to enter STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). They also discuss Rudean’s writing, including the novella "Cousin’s Sister" about an enslaved healer and "Coal, War, and Love," which describes her grandfather’s experiences with the Harlem Hellfighters. She also speaks about her years living with her husband in South Africa and her perspective on science, healing, and history.

Host Amelia Headley LaMont interviews Yvonne Petersen, Executive Director of Beyond Visions Foundation, about her decades of nonprofit leadership, grant writing and training, and efforts to build local capacity across the U.S. Virgin Islands. They discuss practical tips for aligning missions with funders, preparing competitive grant applications, the importance of collaboration, and special education approaches (including IEPs and lessons from Finland). Beyond Visions Foundation is located on both St. Thomas and Croix, and their phone number is (340)-714-2830. 

Archie Jennings and Shammi Carr discuss National Disability Employment Awareness Month, explaining employer-focused resources such as ODEP, JAN, EARN, and EEOC guidance on reasonable accommodation and return-to-work strategies. They also outline services for job seekers and beneficiaries — Vocational Rehabilitation, Department of Labor, Ticket to Work, Island Therapy Solutions, and My Brother’s Workshop — and share how DRCVI supports employers and employees in the U.S. Virgin Islands. For more information contact DRCVI or visit drcvi.org.

This episode features Cancer Support VI's Barb Michaud (President/CEO), Anna Holley (Director of Operations), and patient advocate Anique Harrigan discussing Pinktober awareness events, community outreach, volunteer efforts, and how listeners can get help or get involved. For assistance, contact the patient advocate at 340-514-8647 or visit cancersupportvi.org. Over 450 new cancer cases are diagnosed in the U.S. Virgin Islands each year, and more than 30% of residents lack medical insurance, creating heavy financial and emotional burdens. Cancer Support VI provides rapid financial grants and local resources to help patients access care—$2,500 for insured patients, $4,000 for Medicaid recipients, and $5,000 for uninsured individuals—with 100% of local donations used to support territory residents.

Attorney Kishma B. Francis speaks with Dr. Juan Christian about Tutu Park Mall’s “Community Connectivity” efforts, and the importance of community collaboration and creating a space for agencies to share resources.  They discuss the power of partnerships—schools, nonprofits, businesses, and volunteers—to provide resources, raise awareness, and create emotionally and culturally safe spaces for residents. The episode highlights community needs like compassion, unity, and support for youth. It explains how listeners can get involved or learn more via Tutu Park Mall’s Facebook page or by calling 340-775-4658.

Dr. Muria Nisbett and Destiny Samuels speak about intentional self-care, mental health awareness, and practical strategies to prevent burnout — from daily small practices and respite for caregivers to normalizing therapy and checking in with others during Suicide Prevention Month and hurricane season. Listeners receive tips for parents, teachers, and community members, and are directed to the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands for more information (www.drcvi.org, 340-776-4303).

Wilfred Labiosa, CEO of Waves Ahead, discusses building community-based mental health and support services, including housing, for older adults and the LGBT community across Puerto Rico. He explains how Waves Ahead is working to solve problems through the organization’s hurricane relief work, reconstruction, the creation of regionally located centers, and ongoing research into anxiety, depression, and suicide among older Puerto Ricans. The episode addresses practical challenges—such as technology barriers, food insecurity, limited mental health access, and housing loss—and Waves Ahead’s plans for elder housing, shelters, and restorative community programs. Labiosa also addresses advocacy, policy obstacles, funding losses, and simple interventions listeners can use to support neighbors and reduce isolation.

Host Amelia Headley-Lamont talks with Jim Harrington, founder of theTexas Civil Rights Project, about his new memoir and decades of organizing and litigation for farmworkers, students, people with disabilities, and communities. Harrington reflects on victories, setbacks, and lessons for activists and lawyers working to protect civil and disability rights. His new book, "The Texas Civil Rights Project: How We Built a Social Justice Movement," was recently released by the University of Texas Press. The conversation covers harsh conditions, strategies like house meetings and community organizing, key legal battles on workers’ compensation, police brutality, accessible voting and public spaces, and the broader effort to build a lasting social justice movement.

In this episode, Archie Jennings, Esq., talks with Lawanda Cook, PhD, CRC, Senior Extension Associate at Cornell’s Yang Tan Institute and content specialist for the Northeast ADA Center. They explain the ADA Trainer Leadership Network (TLN), a free train‑the‑trainer program with 57 modules that builds local capacity to teach ADA rights and responsibilities across employment, public services, public accommodations, customer service, service animals, and accessible technology. Lawanda shares examples of TLN impact — from company accommodation policies and county job fairs to inclusive outdoor dining during COVID — and provides resources for support (Northeast ADA toll‑free 1‑800‑949‑4232, [email protected]) and local Disability Rights of the Virgin Islands contacts. The next TLN train‑the‑trainer workshop is scheduled for October 2025.

Host Archie Jennings, the Director of Advocacy, covers the Americans with Disabilities Act 35th Anniversary in a conversation with the Honorable Julien Henley, the Territorial ADA Coordinator, discussing key initiatives and challenges in making the Virgin Islands more accessible for persons with disabilities. Julien highlights significant legislative efforts, such as the Visitability Law, which incentivizes homeowners to ensure accessibility, and the ABLE Act, aimed at providing financial security for individuals with disabilities without jeopardizing federal benefits. The episode underscores the importance of these legislative measures in achieving a more inclusive society. Furthermore, the episode explores the transition towards digitized government documents to enhance accessibility for visually challenged individuals, ongoing projects with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to support hand control car modifications, and the crucial role of the State Rehabilitation Council in enhancing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Julien concludes by encouraging community involvement and awareness in supporting disability rights and access.

Join hosts Dawn Dyer and Attorney Archie Jennings from the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands as they welcome Dr. Ramona Moss, Chair of the U.S. Virgin Islands Board of Psychology Examiners, for an insightful discussion on mental health. Explore the vital importance of ensuring mental health professionals are licensed, the role of the Board of Psychology Examiners, and the challenges of accessing psychiatric care in the Virgin Islands. Understand the impact of legislation on mental health treatment and learn about the initiatives aimed at improving services for individuals with severe mental illness. Discover practical advice for maintaining good mental health, supporting children with behavioral challenges, and the effects of social media on well-being. This episode provides valuable information for those seeking mental health support and insights into the ongoing efforts to enhance mental health care in the Virgin Islands.

Dawn Dyer hosts Casey Payton, Executive Director of the VI Justice Initiative, to discuss how this innovative nonprofit is providing crucial legal support across the territory, from the successful "Clean Slate" expungement program to the "Know Your Rights" campaign, which helps youth understand their legal rights and consequences. Attorney Payton shares inspiring stories of outreach and education, explaining how the Initiative aims to foster a safer, more informed community. Explore the challenges and successes of reaching at-risk youth and the importance of collaboration among community organizations. Whether it's clearing records or imparting essential legal knowledge, the VI Justice Initiative is making a meaningful difference in the lives of Virgin Islanders.

(Part 2 of 2) In this engaging episode of Ability Radio, host Amelia Headley-LaMont welcomes Paula Whatley Matabane, a retired professor from Howard University and an ordained elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Together, they delve into Matabane's profound family legacy, exploring her grandparents' journey from slavery to higher education and their influence on her spiritual and personal path. Discover how Matabane's investigation into her grandmother's memoir and her own spiritual journey sheds light on resilience, spirituality, and the power of ancestral ties. Matabane discusses her transition from political activism to spiritual ministry, illustrating how her family's story and the teachings of figures like Howard Thurman shaped her understanding of faith and social justice. Her upcoming memoir highlights her family's remarkable achievements, emerging from humble beginnings to prominence, and offers insight into the divine guidance she believes shaped their paths. Join this compelling narrative of perseverance, faith, and the enduring impact of familial and spiritual heritage.

Amelia Hedley-Lamont introduces Gerad Evelyn, an assistive technology specialist at the Virgin Islands University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (VIUCEDD), which serves a broader range of individuals beyond students. This episode explores the world of assistive technology, showcasing its diverse applications beyond electronic devices, ranging from wheelchairs to voice-over-equipped smartphones. Discover how Gerard, dubbed the 'accessibility guru,' turned a personal challenge into a pathway to help others achieve independence. He talks about the iCanConnect program at VIUCEDD. It provides free communication tools for those with considerable hearing and vision loss. Tune in for an insightful discussion on empowering individuals with disabilities through technology, training, and accessible resources.

Amelia Headly-LaMont is joined by Archie Jennings, the Director of Advocacy at the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands, to discuss information relevant to the disability community, including the proposed ABLE Act, which aims to ease the financial burdens of individuals with disabilities by establishing tax-advantaged savings accounts. The episode also highlights the formation of the Virgin Islands Psychological Board, ensuring quality mental health services for the community. And, revisits the ongoing advocacy for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) implementation and access at airports, as well as the challenges related to service animals. 

Amelia Headley-Lamont from the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands and two pioneering artists, Elisa McKay and Pedra Chaffers, who showcased their two-woman art exhibition "Fabric and Silhouettes: Generational Synergy". The discussion highlights their artistic evolution, the inspiration they draw from the Virgin Islands, and their journey from educators to celebrated artists. Elisa McKay narrates her journey from New York to the Caribbean, where the island's vibrant colors reignited her passion for art, leading to a retrospective of her multi-decade career. Pedra Chaffers shares her path from Michigan to the islands, balancing her talents as an art educator with her beadwork art inspired by the local culture and traditions. Explore how their diverse backgrounds converge in a harmonious exhibition, where viewers are invited to experience the emotional depth and cultural richness that these artists bring to life through mixed media, beads, and found objects. 

(Part 1 of 2) Join Amelia Headley LaMont on Ability Radio as she engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Paula Whatley Matabane, exploring the compelling life story of her grandmother, Ione Davis, and the memoir she penned in 1948 detailing the resilience and struggles from the sharecropping farms of South Georgia. As the granddaughter of formerly enslaved people, Davis’s narrative unfolds against the backdrop of socio-political turmoil and racial injustice. Dr. Matabane delves into her personal journey, weaving through the intricate tapestry of familial ties, societal shifts, and cultural metamorphosis profoundly impacted by landmark moments in history, including the Civil Rights Movement and the rise of Black Power. This episode reflects on identity, heritage, and the quest for dignity, tracing the echoes of ancestry through personal and collective history.

Join host Kishma B. Francis for the crucial topic of technology-facilitated sexual assault with special guest Ms. Simona Thomas, an expert in education and psychology. This conversation sheds light on how digital platforms can be misused for harassment and exploitation, putting victims in emotionally distressing situations. Learn about the various forms of online sexual violence, including non-consensual image sharing, sextortion, and deepfake technology. We discuss the profound impacts of these violations on victims, including emotional distress and loss of trust, and explore the critical role of community support and awareness in addressing these issues. Discover practical advice on how students and others can protect themselves with stronger privacy settings and cautious digital footprints. Gain insights into the importance of reporting assaults, available resources, and fostering a supportive environment to combat the stigma and isolation often faced by victims. Tune in to empower yourself and your community with knowledge, ensuring a safer digital world for everyone.

Host Kishma B. Francis and guests Dr. Muria Nisbett, and Destiny Samuel discuss grief by sharing personal stories and advice on how grief impacts children and adults. They explore various types of grief, such as losing a loved one or facing life changes like ending relationships, changing jobs, and moving. This episode offers valuable tips on supporting ourselves and others in times of sadness. It emphasizes the importance of allowing everyone to speak openly about their feelings without judgment and highlights how seeking help from a therapist can be life-changing.

Join Amelia Headley-Lamont and teacher Diane Collingwood on Ability Radio as they talk about a cool journey from dance to farming. Diane shares her amazing story of becoming the first woman to graduate in farming from the University of the Virgin Islands. She loves to change how we teach farming and wants to help young people get involved.   You’ll learn about how important women are in farming, why having good communication skills matters, and how kids can make a difference through farming and caring for the environment. They’ll talk about the challenges and chances in farming in the Virgin Islands and the new ideas to help people grow food and take care of our planet.  

Join Amelia Headley-Lamont from the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands for an important talk about help for finding and keeping jobs. Special guest Kimberly Washington from Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) and her team members, Reneta Adjodha and Rifkah Deane, share how they help students with disabilities move from school to good jobs. Learn how important it is to support people with disabilities and why having jobs in the community helps them succeed! Shammi Carr, DRCVI advocate, discusses collaborations, workforce readiness, and job accommodations. She explains how people work together to help others get ready for jobs and find the right support they need. It focuses on helping students and adults get equal chances to work in different jobs, like government, stores, cooking, or fixing things. The goal is to help everyone find satisfying and lasting jobs they enjoy.

This episode of Ability Radio delves into the experiences of longtime U.S. Virgin Islands residents, Lad and Lisa Wallace, as they discuss the challenges of surviving both hurricanes and wildfires. With the host, Amelia Headley-Lamont of the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands, the Wallaces share their experiences of evacuating during a massive wildfire in California and the lessons they learned about emergency preparedness. The episode highlights the importance of heeding evacuation warnings, being prepared with emergency supplies, and having a plan in place for keeping in touch with family during disasters. It also explores the emotional aftermath of losing irreplaceable personal items and the role that community support plays in recovery. For those living in the Virgin Islands and similar regions, the insights shared by the Wallaces offer a valuable perspective on dealing with both hurricanes and fires.

Welcome to the 2024 year-end episode of Ability Radio, hosted by Angus Drigo, Executive Director of the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. This special episode features conversations with key team members: Archie Jennings, Shammi Carr, and Kishma Francis, who share insights into the organization's mission and activities throughout the year. The discussion highlights the importance of legal advocacy for individuals with disabilities, the role of the Parent Training Information Center, and the innovative programs like the Youth Empowerment Leadership Program designed to empower and support young individuals on their journey to becoming self-advocates. The episode also addresses critical issues such as mental health services for children with disabilities and stresses the importance of community collaboration to enhance accessibility and support. Join us as we reflect on the achievements and ongoing efforts to improve the lives of people with disabilities in the Virgin Islands.

In this episode of Ability Radio, host Amelia Hedley-Lamont of the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands engages in a powerful conversation with Kalyn Fahie, an advocate, author, and training & technical assistance manager for Ujima - the National Center on Violence Against Women in the Black Community. Kalyn shares her personal journey from surviving domestic violence to becoming a beacon of hope and support for others facing similar challenges. During the discussion, Kalyn highlights the importance of financial empowerment for domestic violence survivors and offers key insights into culturally specific support services that address the unique needs of black communities. She also provides valuable resources available for victims, such as local US Virgin Islands support organizations and national hotlines, emphasizing the significance of discreet planning and community-based initiatives. This episode sheds light on the pressing need for collective action, advocacy, and a robust support system to aid survivors and prevent further violence, while reinforcing that anyone, regardless of gender, can be affected by domestic violence. Links from the episode: https://ujimacommunity.org/ https://www.thehotline.org/ https://usvifrc.org/ https://wcstx.org/  

Join host Amelia Hedley-Lemont in this episode about the integral roles of the University Center of Excellence on Developmental Disabilities (VIUCEDD) and the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. Guests Shamika Thomas, MPH, CCHW, Executive Director of VIUCEDD, and Shammi Carr, DRCVI Advocate, discuss how these organizations serve the broader community by providing essential services and advocacy for people with disabilities.  Explore the free services the UCEDD offers the entire community, ranging from early intervention to assistive technology and a lending closet for durable medical supplies. Shamika Thomas explains how these resources are made accessible to the community through grants and partnerships, while Shammi Carr highlights the collective efforts to drive systemic change for individuals with disabilities across the territory. Learn about the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program, a pioneering initiative aimed at fostering leaders in the disability advocacy field. Discover how this program, in collaboration with the Westchester Institute for Human Development, equips Virgin Islanders with the skills needed to advance disability services. Finally, the episode touches on the various training sessions and events like Voices That Count, illustrating how these initiatives offer platforms for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. 

Welcome to Ability Radio, hosted by Amelia Headley-Lamont from the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Sonia Taylor-Griffith, a dedicated pediatric dentist serving the communities of St. Thomas and St. Croix. Dr. Griffith sheds light on the prevalent issue of dental decay among children in the territory and discusses how dietary habits, especially the intake of processed foods rich in sugar, significantly contribute to this concerning trend. Dr. Griffith emphasizes the importance of early and consistent dental care, recommending that children visit the dentist as soon as their first tooth appears to combat early decay. She shares practical advice for parents, such as substituting sugary juices with water and promoting healthy eating habits to prevent dental issues. The conversation also explores adaptive dental care strategies for children with special needs, addressing challenges in improving oral hygiene and the importance of consistent therapy support from professionals such as occupational and speech therapists. Dr. Griffith highlights the need for community awareness and addressing barriers to access, ensuring every child receives the dental care they deserve. Join us for an insightful discussion on ensuring healthier, brighter smiles for our children.

In this captivating episode of Ability Radio, host Amelia Headley-Lamont from the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands welcomes a special guest, Dr. Alexis Pauline Gumbs. Dr. Gumbs, a renowned author and self-proclaimed queer black feminist love evangelist, discusses her latest work, "Survival is a Promise: The Eternal Life of Audre Lorde." The conversation delves into Dr. Gumbs' unique perspective as an "aspirational cousin to all life," emphasizing the interconnectedness of all beings. She shares insights into her writing process, inspired by the multifaceted life of Audre Lorde, a literary icon known for her profound exploration of diverse life forms, from marine life to outer space. Listeners will be intrigued by stories of Audre Lorde's life, her influence on Dr. Gumbs, and her enduring legacy. The episode highlights Lorde's journey of self-preservation, activism, and her vibrant life in St. Croix, where she became an integral part of the community. Join us for an enlightening discussion that celebrates the profound impact of Audre Lorde's work and the ways in which Dr. Gumbs continues to honor her legacy through her writings and advocacy.

As the upcoming election day on November 5th approaches, we are pleased to have Caroline Fawkes, the Supervisor of Elections, as our guest to discuss essential voting information. Caroline shares updates on voting centers across St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, emphasizing the new accessibility features and the importance of early voting. In this previously recorded episode, we discuss the absentee ballot process, early voting opportunities, and accessibility measures to ensure that individuals with disabilities can participate seamlessly. Caroline highlights the voting equipment designed to assist disabled voters, underscoring the significance of ADA compliance in voting centers. We also explore the importance of engaging younger voters and the roles of different elected positions, such as the Board of Education and the Constitutional Convention. Caroline emphasizes the power of every vote and encourages listeners to participate actively in shaping the future of the Virgin Islands. Join us as we discuss the qualifications for voting, the significance of various elected roles, and the resources available for voters to stay informed. Don't miss this informative episode as we encourage everyone, especially individuals with disabilities, to exercise their right to vote.

In this episode, host Kishma B. Francis dives into the topic of healthy gaming with special guest Dr. Alok Kanojia, a psychiatrist and founder of Healthy Gamer. Dr. Kanojia, a recovering video game addict, shares his insights on how gaming can become an addiction and offers valuable advice on how parents and teachers can help children develop a balanced relationship with video games. He discusses the impact of gaming on individuals with ADHD and autism and highlights the importance of understanding the underlying reasons behind excessive gaming. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Kanojia emphasizes the significance of communication between parents and children, the benefits of gaming, and how to foster self-regulation in kids. He also provides a glimpse into his book, "How to Raise a Healthy Gamer," which offers practical steps for parents to manage their child's gaming habits effectively. Join us for an enlightening discussion on creating a healthy gaming environment and nurturing a positive relationship with technology.

Welcome to "Ability Radio," hosted by Angus Drigo and brought to you by the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. In this episode, we sit down with Ms. Caribel Leyva-Romero, Community Engagement Program Coordinator for the Veterans Health Administration. Together, they discuss the importance of suicide prevention and the broader healthcare needs of veterans in the Virgin Islands. Ms. Romero shares insights into the structure of the Veterans Administration and her role in creating community coalitions aimed at improving veterans' access to services. She highlights the collaborative efforts between local organizations, families, and the VA to address gaps in care and support systems for veterans. Tune in to learn more about how you can get involved in these crucial initiatives and help make a difference in the lives of veterans in your community.

Join host Kishma B. Francis on Ability Radio, presented by the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands, as she delves into part two of an insightful conversation about the Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) community program. This episode features Jacqueline Greenidge-Payne, the 2024 Vanguard Award recipient and Director for the State Office of Emergency Medical Services, nurse practitioner Kami Mead, and advocate Dawn O'Brien. Discover the incredible work of the MIH team, a dedicated group of four professionals who go above and beyond to provide essential healthcare services to those in need. Hear heartwarming success stories, learn about their challenges, and find out how to get involved as a volunteer or donor to support their mission. Please tune in to understand how this program is making a difference in the lives of patients and their families and why community support and awareness are crucial for its continued success.

Welcome to a special episode of Ability Radio, brought to you by the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. Join host Kishma B. Francis as she sits down with three extraordinary women: Jacqueline Greenidge-Payne, Kami Mead, and Dawn O'Bryan, to discuss the impactful Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) program. Jacqueline Greenidge-Payne, the Director of the State Office of Emergency Medical Services and a Vanguard Award recipient, shares her inspiring journey from a nurse to a paramedic, highlighting her exceptional 35 years of service. Kami Mead, a dedicated nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience, and Dawn O'Brien, an advocate with the Disability Rights Center, also share their experiences and roles within the MIH program. The conversation delves into the inception of MIH post-Hurricane Maria in 2017, its mission to provide holistic healthcare services to the community, and the extraordinary lengths the team goes to ensure the well-being of their patients. From medical care to home safety and even yard maintenance, the MIH team truly exemplifies community care. Learn about the critical support from organizations like Pafford EMS and the community health clinic and discover the future aspirations for expanding this state-of-the-art program. Don't miss out on this heartwarming and informative discussion! For more information, visit the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands on their YouTube channel or at www.drcvi.org.

Welcome to this episode of Ability Radio, brought to you by the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. Join hosts Kishma B. Francis and guest Dr. Trisha Harris as they delve into the crucial topic of hygiene and its various aspects. Dr. Harris, a medical provider serving St. Croix and St. Thomas, provides a comprehensive overview of personal, environmental, and sleep hygiene. Learn the importance of proper hand washing, dental care, and maintaining a healthy routine to ensure overall well-being. Discover the connections between hygiene, nutrition, and mental health, and gain valuable tips on creating a bedtime routine, managing stress, and improving sleep hygiene. Dr. Harris also emphasizes the significance of addressing mental health openly and seeking professional help when needed. Tune in for practical advice and insights to help you enhance your hygiene practices and improve your health. For more information, contact the St. Thomas East End Medical Clinic or Frederikstead Healthcare Center in St. Croix.

Join Amelia Hedley-Lamont from the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands as she hosts Alecia Wells, Chairwoman of the Virgin Islands Board of Elections. This episode of Ability Radio dives into the critical role of the Board of Elections, the voting process, and exciting changes aimed at making voting more accessible and engaging for everyone. Learn about the structure of the Board, the importance of voter registration, and the various ways voters, including those incarcerated, can cast their ballots. Ms. Wells also shares her vision for the future of voting, including the potential for voting via mobile devices, and highlights upcoming voting expos designed to educate and energize the electorate. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on the intricacies of the election system and the efforts to enhance voter participation in the Virgin Islands.