The Atlantic CIL Podcast

In this episode, Donald talks with Amanda Chirelli, the Outreach Coordinator for the MOCEANS Center of Independent Living. The two talk about struggles of living with Cerebral Palsy, as well as how to get into advocacy for disability as well as time on how to get started.Learn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/Music Used: Gunnar Olsen - First To Lasthttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bWwDbCAums

In this episode, Donald talks with Louis A Casadia - a New Jersey Criminal Prosecutor - about a number of different things regarding the law in New Jersey and how it can relate to someone with a physical or mental disability.CONTENT WARNINGThis podcast contains discussion about the following:Sexual AssaultGang/Gun ViolenceDomestic DisputesCar Accidents/Road RageThese topics are presented in a relevant and respectful manner, and no imagery is depicted in this podcast, however, viewer discretion is advised.Learn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/Music Used: Gunnar Olsen - First To Lasthttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bWwDbCAums

In this episode, Donald talks with the CIL's newest associate, Amadeo Astillero. He talks about his goals he wishes to achieve, his struggles in his past, and shares personal stories about his experiences regarding his education.Learn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/Music Used: Gunnar Olsenhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bWwDbCAums

In this episode, we talk with Lisa Lockard, an Independent Travel Advisor who specializes in Accessible Travel. She shares some trade secrets about how travel advising works, why you would want to book with one, and notes how ADA compliancy doesn't always cover the disabilities you may have.Interested in travelling? Contact Lisa below!Phone: (609)204-5289Email: [email protected]: www.facebook.com/LisaTravelConnectLearn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/Music Used: Gunnar Olsenhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bWwDbCAums

In this episode, we talk with Paul Aronsohn, the New Jersey Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities and Their Families.We discuss what an Ombudsman is, as well as issues tackled in Aronsohn's most recent report. The episode revolves around abuse in nursing homes, assisted living homes, and group homes, as well as the legislative process and how a lack of disabled representation can affect the speed at which laws for the disabled take effect.Learn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/Music Used: Gunnar Olsenhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bWwDbCAums

In this episode, we talk to Matthew Binder, the director, and Matt of Easterseals New Jersey about the importance of Medicaid. We also explored the significance of advocacy and how people with disabilities and their supporters can advocate and become engaged.Link- https://www.easterseals.com/nj/get-involved/advocacy/

In this Episode, we sat down with Alexander Casillas, a gay Puerto Rican author, editor, and writing coach near the beach between Philadelphia and Manhattan, talking about his book series "The Immortal Philosophers" and how he got to where he is.Support Alexander Casillas:https://alexandercasillas.com/Read "The Immortal Philosophers":https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DR7KHPM3?ref_=k4w_oembed_jmCKFOMjYNbzI5&tag=kpembed-20&linkCode=kpd

In this Episode, we talk to Marisa Douglas of A Better Tomorrow Counseling Services.Support A Better Tomorrow Counseling Services: https://abettertomorrowcounselingservices.com/

In this episode,  we talk to Dan a transman who started transitioning in 2013 shortly after earning his BS in Molecular Biology at Montclair State University. He has previously taken on leadership roles in LGBTQ+ employee resource groups, championing diversity and inclusion in the workplace. As someone living with multiple marginalizations, Dan also understands the complex intersections of being Trans, a person of color, and living with a disability as an above-the-knee amputee. As such, his ongoing efforts and advocacy work through TEC and its community partners are viewed explicitly through these lenses to ensure the impact is widespread, equitable, and inclusive. He is pursuing his Master's in Information Technology and is excited to apply these skills and knowledge to further community connectedness and outreach. Learn more about Trans Equity Coalition:https://www.transequitycoalition.org/home

Since 2018, Kevin Nunez has been on a journey of self-. He has sought to respond to our profoundly changing world and learn from others how to be the best self-advocate he can be. He also still has the ever-present desire to build coalitions with others to improve his corner of the world for people with disabilities. The mission never ends.Link- https://www.amazon.com/Confessions-Disability-Limbo-Commentary-Society/dp/B09B1VP5YP

We kick off 2025 with Andrea Nieves. Andrea is an experienced advocate. We discuss the importance of advocacy, how people can get involved in their community, and how civic engagement does not have to involve politics.Below is a Facebook group with information about a book club that Andrea created, which exists to help create social change.Link- https://www.facebook.com/groups/906344471712140/?ref=share&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=GrnaVk1CLurzV6Mw&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2Fg%2F1BQaqbQqrn%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr#

In this episode, we welcome back Karyn Adams for her second interview, talking about her second book called "The Challenges and Triumphs of Stephon Adams. " We also spoke about disability advocacy, community involvement, and creating a support system. Karyn's website is in the link below Link- https://www.authorkarynadams.com/ Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

With the 2024 election coming, we sat down with Christina Khalil, a senator candidate for the Green Party for this upcoming election.Learn more about Christina Khalil:https://khalilforsenate.com/Learn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

With the 2024 Election coming up, we sat down with Patrica Mooneyham, a candidate for the 2024 Senate Election talking how she got to where she is today. Learn more about Patricia Mooneyham: https://votemooneyham4ussenate.com/Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we have a great talk with Kelly Wernersbach. Her bio is below My name is Kelly, and I am the proud owner of Adjust Your Sleep Mattress Boutique Locally I encourage everyone to visit the showroom and to be physically fitted to your sleep system as this is the primary way to experience/shop I also have the ability to custom make for you.My goal is to create an optimal life For all my clients. Through SleepWith 18 years of mattress, custom design, build and health research I'm excited to introduce a revolutionary approach to mattress sales that ensures everyone, regardless of location, can find their perfect sleep system.Through our tele-health Zoom fittings, I conduct personalized discovery calls to assess each individual's unique sleep and health needs. Instead of the traditional method of choosing a mattress based on guesswork, this tailored approach allows me to recommend the ideal sleep solution for you.Even if you can’t visit our store, you can have confidence in your selection, knowing it’s backed by a thorough understanding of your preferences and health Learn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

Special needs trust and how they can be used to protect people with disabilities from losing their benefits if they receive money.  We also discuss alternatives to guardianship and disability rights.   Learn more about Ralston Law:https://ralstonlawestateplanning.com/Learn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we talk to Diane Conover, a nurse with personal and professional experience working with people with dementia and Alzheimer's. We discussed the Clear effects of this diagnosis and the support that people with these disabilities and their caregivers and loved ones need. We also discussed best practices and proper etiquette when engaging with people with these disabilities. Learn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we sat down with Vicki Phillips, Executive Director of the Mental Health Association in Atlantic County., We discussed MHA's mission and services. We also discussed our Civic Action Engagement Initiatives and the importance of disability advocacy, breaking barriers between all parts of the disability community, and reducing the stigma of having a mental health disability through the stigma-free campaign.   Thank you to the New Jersey Division of Disability Services for funding our Civic Action Engagement Initiative through their Inclusive Healthy Communities GrantLearn more about NJ Division of Disability Services Inclusive Healthy Communities (IHC) Grant  https://inclusivehealthycommunities.org/ Learn more about The Mental Health Association in Atlantic County: https://www.mhaac.info/index.htmlLearn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/ Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

Discover the transformative journey of Carolee Morano, who shifted from a successful 14-year career in international banking to becoming a passionate advocate for people with developmental disabilities,  In this episode, we discuss the Atlantic Center for Independent Living and the Mental Health Association in Atlantic County’s Civic Action Engagement Initiative and how people with disabilities can become more involved in the community.  The Civic Action Engagement Initiative  is funded by the NJ Division of Disability Services (DDS), New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS)Links1. https://www.mhaac.info/ubw-how-to-join.html2. https://inclusivehealthycommunities.org/

In this episode, we sat down with Michele Kreuzer of BEEhavior Budz, an organization that empowers families and providers with effective strategies to respond to various behaviors. We discussed the importance of supporting people with behavioral disabilities, listening to their needs, and involving them in the process. We also considered the whole environment that can affect someone's behavior.Learn more about BEEhavior Budz:https://www.beehaviorbudz.com/Learn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we talk to Rebecca Martin from Rutgers about the Inclusive Healthy Communities grant. Rebecca provides support for the Inclusive Healthy Communities award winners. The Inclusive Healthy Communities (IHC) grant program, established in 2020 by the Division of Disability Services, New Jersey Department of Human Services, funds New Jersey communities and organizations engaged in projects that promote the health and well-being of individuals with disabilities in their communities.  We discussed the IHC grant with Rebecca and how she became involved in disability work.    Link-https://inclusivehealthycommunities.org/about/ 

In this episode, we had the privilege of interviewing Davina Patterson, Executive Director of Disability Resource Network. The organization is located in Huntsville, AL, and serves 13 counties in North Alabama. During the interview, Davina shared her journey, where she started, and how she reached her current position. Learn about Disability Resource Network:https://www.drn256.org/

In this episode, We talk to Sophie Poost of Disability EmpowHer Network, which is a non-profit run by and for girls and women with disabilities that connects, motivates, and guides women with disabilities to grow, learn, and develop to their highest potential and have the confidence to lead.Disability EmpowHer Network:https://www.disabilityempowhernetwork.org/

We spoke with Kate Kelly and Jesse Schwartzman in this episode to discuss the Integrated Community Project (ICP) and The ICP Toolkit for Municipalities. Created by the Supportive Housing Association of New Jersey, these tools allow people to perform accessibility assessments of local governments and municipalities.   The assessment and the toolkit give government officials the tools and support they need to become more accessible. The toolkit was developed specifically for local governments and municipalities in New Jersey. Still, the toolkit can make any organization serving people with disabilities more accessible. This initiative was funded by the New Jersey Division of Disability Services with funds from the Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant.  If you would like to learn more about how to use the toolkit, don't hesitate to get in touch with Kate Kelly at [email protected] LINKS1. The Integrated Community Project (ICP): https://www.shanj.org/sha-integrated-community-project/2. The ICP Toolkit for Municipalities: https://www.shanj.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/SHA-NJ-ICP-Toolkit-Second-Edition-Final.pdf3. https://inclusivehealthycommunities.org/Learn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode we interview Carolyn Quinn of the Mental Health Association in New Jersey.Carolyn Quinn joined MHA in January of 2013. She received a Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Studies from Boston University in May 2010 and completed post-bachelorette studies towards a Master of Social Work from Rutgers University.Carolyn has received certifications/licenses as Certified Recovery Specialist Practitioner (CRSP), Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS), Internationally Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (I/C PRS), Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner (CPRP) and a Disaster Relief Crisis Counselor (DRCC). Carolyn is a certified trainer for multiple curriculums including Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid Trainer, Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) Trainer, Question Persuade Refer Suicide Prevention Training (QPR).During her tenure at MHA, she has worked in multiple roles, starting as a peer specialist working with individuals in enhanced supportive housing. After Superstorm Sandy hit NJ, Carolyn assisted in recovery work funded by grants from Robert Wood Johnson, Atlantic County Department of Health, and New Jersey Relief Fund. It was her work during Sandy that led to her certification from the Hoarding Intervention Training Institute and Mutual Support Consulting in several evidence based Hoarding Disorder interventions. Carolyn is the co-founder of MHA’s Too Much Stuff Hoarding Behaviors Initiative in 2014 and currently serves as the chair of the Atlantic County Hoarding Task Force.Carolyn worked as manager of the Wellness Center Manager in Atlantic County, where she coordinated operations, supervised, and supported peer employees, volunteers, and program members by developing and implementing activities, groups, and other services rooted in wellness-oriented models. Wellness philosophies that shaped Carolyn’s work includes Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP), Copeland Center Wellness Engagement (WE), Whole Health Action Management (WHAM), Emotional CPR (E-CPR), Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) to name a few.Carolyn serves an integral role as trainer and organizer for the Atlantic County Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Steering Committee. The CIT initiative helps create a joint response of police and mental health providers to the community.During the initial phases of the Covid-19 Pandemic Carolyn provided disaster response crisis counseling, and then as part of the senior leadership she helped develop United by Wellness (UBW)- a virtual wellness center. UBW brings the principles (no-cost support, education, and advocacy in a safe, and diverse community) rooted from in-person peer programs to a virtual platform. In the first six months of launch UBW provided 587 groups to 41,386 duplicated members.Carolyn currently serves as Community Engagement and Wellness Programs Director, where she oversees Atlantic county’s self-help/wellness & recovery programs and initiatives. In her role she combines her passions by promoting MHA’s public policy agenda and cultivate relationships in diverse communities to provide new opportunities for populations served around housing, education, employment, financial capability, health/mental health, and community inclusion.Carolyn lives and works in Galloway, NJ. She is a home improvement enthusiast in the home she shares with husband and their two rescued Springer [email protected] or 609-652-3800 ext. 0303https://www.mhanj.org/

On this episode, we sat down with Debra Freed of Adult Independent Services. She gives us information about Adult Independent Services and how she got to where she is todayLearn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/aphoLearn More about Debra Freed and the Adult Independent Services:https://adultindependentservices.com/[email protected]

In this episode, we talk to Nicole Heckelmann who teaches at the Little Egg Harbor School DistrictLearn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/

In this episode, we sat down with Cristine Chickadel of the NJ Division of Disability Services (DDS)  to discuss  NJ ABLE Program, and she talked about how to set up an ABLE account.Learn about the NJ ABLE Program:https://savewithable.com/nj/home.htmlContact Cristine Chickadel:609-631-2451Learn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/

In this episode, we spoke to Janna Roberts. She spoke about her personal and professional experience with people with mental health disabilities.  Learn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/

In this episode, we spoke with Alyson Bakley, who is Vice Chair of the Board of Atlantic CIL.Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we sat down with Taylor Gantt, a 22-year-old cosplayer living with mild cerebral palsy and auditory processing. She talks about what she's studying in college, how she got into cosplaying, and where she is today.Support Taylor Gantt:https://www.instagram.com/taytaycos/Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we talk to Chris Hodgens, a salesman who suffered from a stroke back in 2010 that affected his life and the battles he faced to where he is today.Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we sat down with Jaime Angelini, Statewide Director of Suicide Prevention, Crisis Response, and Special Projects. for the Mental Health Association in NJ.  We talk about the steps people can take to help recognize the signs that someone may be thinking of completing suicide and how we can work to prevent it.Jaime L. Angelini:email: [email protected] 2019 Youth Risk and Behavior Survey https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/data/yrbs/results.htm Ring The Alarm https://theactionalliance.org/sites/default/files/ring_the_alarm-_the_crisis_of_black_youth_suicide_in_america_copy.pdf   Trevor Project Survey https://www.thetrevorproject.org/survey-2022/ The Trevor Lifeline-1-866-488-7386 Trevor Text Line ‘START' to 678-678 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 988 https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmhas/initiatives/988/#:~:text=Compassionate%2C%20accessible%20care%20and%20support,who%20may%20need%20crisis%20support

In this episode, we sat down with Daniel Solt, an attorney for South Jersey Legal Services, and how he got to where he is today.Learn more about South Jersey Legal Services:https://www.lsnj.org/sjls/Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we sat down with Karyn Adams, the author "Don't Give Up: The Stan Adams Jr. Story". She shares the struggles her son had to face and how they accomplished his goals.Buy "Don't Give Up: The Stan Adams Jr. Story": https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Give-Up-Adams-Story/dp/B0BPGBRFLSMusic by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we talk to Adam Denny (better known by the alias Adam Electronic). He is an 18-year-old producer from Oregon living with Russell-Silver syndrome and talks about his music, work, and how he got to where he is today.Follow Adam Electronic:https://www.youtube.com/MozzyFluorumhttps://soundcloud.com/mozzyfluorumhttps://www.instagram.com/adam.electronic/https://mozzyfluorum.bandcamp.com/Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we sat down with Dawn Lolla about her recovery from alcohol and substance use disorder and how she stays healthy. Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we sat down with Megan Grannan, about how she lives with Metatropic Dysplasia, a rare form of dwarfism. And we talked about how she got into teaching including the struggles she had to face like bullying, getting turned down at jobs, and finding the perfect job.Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we sat down with Marily Gonzalez, Vice President & COO of hip cil, talking about how their CIL works and the challenges they face.Visit hip cil:https://www.hipcil.org/Learn more about Atlantic CIL:https://atlanticcil.org/

To kick off the new year, we sat down with Jen Burke, one of our staff members talking about how she got into art and her zoom activities.Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we sat down with Ana Then, one of our staff members, and discuss how she helps connect people with Access Link transportation, the public health grant, and her work as the transition specialist.Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we talk to Lisa-Killion Smith, the Executive Director of The Resources for Independent Living in South Jersey, we talk about her career and how she got to where she's at.Learn more about Resources for Independent Living:https://rilnj.org/Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we interview John McLernon, a licensed clinical social worker. He has also worked in the department of Family & Community Development for Atlantic County and and discussed about how he got to where he is today.Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, we interview Susan Brown of the AtlantiCare PACE program.  We discuss how the PACE program can help people with disabilities live in the community instead of a nursing home. Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode, We interview Theresa Rohlfing of the Center for Independent Living, South Jersey talking about the events they held during the summer, and other fun events they did in the past.You can learn more about The Center for Independent Living, South Jersey by checking our their website:https://www.cil-sj.com/Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

Brian Fitzgibbons is the President and CEO of HIP Center for Independent Living. We discuss DVRS and employment issues people living with disabilities face.https://www.hipcil.org/Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode we discuss the mission of Centers for Independent Living and our core services with, Judyth Brown, Executive Director of MOCEANS Center for Independent Living.https://moceanscil.org/Music by Aphonic: https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode we discuss Social Security with disABILITY Advocate and ACIL Board member, Dave Delaney. Dave served the public with the Social Security Administration for more than 31 years concluding his time with the Administration as its Public Affairs Specialist for the State of New Jersey.Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

This episode is a conversation with Anthony Lanzilotti. Anthony is Atlantic CIL's Board Chair and Vice-President of the National Federation Of The Blind, South Jersey Shore Chapter.Music by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho

In this episode we are joined by Coach Tadris Parker, founder of Keep Calm and Run to the Best You, a program that supports people of all ages and abilities to run their first 5k and beyond. We discuss his health journey and how he started helping others to reach their health goals.https://www.runtothebestyou.comhttps://www.runtothebestyou.com/contact-us-surveyhttps://www.facebook.com/Thebestyou13https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keep-calm-and-run-to-the-best-you-the-podcast/id1480019330https://open.spotify.com/show/14WRDZQWeJw7IJj9kkpvwfMusic by Aphonic:https://linktr.ee/apho