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Week 1: Welcome to Your New Adventure

(And Yes, It’s Raining!)

Our summer kicked off with students moving into their new home away from home – and Mother Nature decided to give everyone surprising Austin welcome with all-day pouring rain! But you know what? Our students didn’t let a little (okay, a LOT) of water dampen their spirits. They met our fantastic E4 team, said those tough but necessary goodbyes to families, and discovered the dining hall – including the life-changing revelation that soft-serve ice cream was available with every single meal. (Let’s just say some priorities were immediately established!)

The week wrapped up with a campus scavenger hunt to help navigate the Forty Acres, where they got thoroughly soaked again but created memories that will last a lifetime. Nothing builds friendship quite like navigating campus together in the rain!

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Student Chris K. moving into the dorms with help from his family, Students Isabella S. and Katelyn F. completing the campus scavenger hunt in the rain.

Week 2: Disability History, Accessible Art, and Building Our Foundation

Week two brought some gorgeous, yet hot, Austin sunshine as they explored the incredible Landmarks public art collection right here on the UT campus. Our students got to see how art and accessibility intersect in public spaces, sparking conversations that continued throughout the program.

Students also dove deep into Disability History with Joe, learning about the incredible advocates who paved the way for the opportunities our students have today. Speaking of milestones – E4Texas learned about and celebrated the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act! What better way to honor this landmark legislation than by empowering the next generation of advocates?

This week also marked the beginning of our core E4 classes: Wellness, Financial Literacy, and Healthy Relationships. These foundational courses would prove essential as our students build confidence and skills for independent living.

Week 3: Austin Exploration and Innovation

By the end of week three, our students had become public transit pros! We used CapMetro to venture out and explore Austin, starting with the stunning Central Branch of the Austin Public Library – a space that truly embodies universal design and accessibility. At E4Texas, we want our students to feel welcome and comfortable, not just on UT campus but in their new city. The central library branch was thoughtfully designed to be a beautiful, sunlit space that is accessible for all. We chose this location as a reference that students could look back on when imagining public spaces designed for all, no matter the age or ability.

The other field experiences this week were particularly powerful. Students visited ADAPT and the Coalition of Texans with Disabilities (CTD), where they met advocates who are actively working to create positive change. At Texas Center for Disability Studies (TCDS), they learned about Assistive Technology with Texas Technology Access Program (TTAP), discovering how the right tools can open up whole new worlds of possibility.

Other innovative classes brand new to E4Texas focused on using Digital Literacy and AI as tools to level the playing field for people with disabilities. Our students embraced this technology with enthusiasm, showing once again that when barriers are removed, amazing things happen!

Week 4: Nature, Advocacy, and Finding Our Voices

Our final field-based experience took us to the Austin Nature and Science Center, where we encountered a crow that was bigger than most small dogs, some small, adorable axolotls, and birds of prey that were older than the students! The Austin Nature and Science Center hosts camps and programs for all ages of students and is a perfect example of a unique potential job opportunity where students can utilize their paraprofessional or childcare certifications upon graduation from E4Texas.

But beyond the wildlife encounters, this week was about preparing for something much bigger, disability rights and advocacy. Students focused intensively on legislative advocacy, learning how to research issues, craft compelling arguments, and speak truth to power drawing on their own lived experiences. Our students wrote mock testimony in preparation for our Capitol visit, pushing through nerves to find their voices on issues that matter to them.

The Grand Finale: Our Day at the Texas Capitol

Friday arrived with anticipation, with students energized and dressed in their business casual best as we made our way to the Texas Capitol. The building was buzzing with activity – people had driven from all corners of the state to testify on the proposed redistricting bill, and our students got to witness democracy in action.

What an incredible day it turned out to be! Our students had the opportunity to meet some amazing Texas leaders: US Senate candidate Colin Allred, Texas House Representative Lloyd Doggett, US House Representative Jazmine Crockett, and Texas House candidate Isaiah Martin. Each interaction showed our students that just one voice can make a difference and that advocacy takes many forms.

Then came the moment we’d all been preparing for – testimony time. Did you know public speaking is considered the most common phobia, ranking ahead of death, spiders, or heights? Despite butterflies in their stomachs, the students stepped up to the microphone to deliver their mock testimony. The pride in the room was palpable as they supported one another, cheering on their peers and celebrating each person’s courage to speak up.

The Journey Continues

Looking back on these four incredible weeks, we’re amazed by the growth we witnessed. Our students walked approximately 200,000 steps together (thanks, fitness trackers!), got lost more times than we can count, and always helped each other find the way.

From that first rainy day of move-in to standing confidently at the Capitol podium, our E4Texas students have shown us what’s possible when young adults are given the tools, support, and opportunities they deserve. In just the first 4 weeks, students discovered strengths they didn’t know they had, formed friendships that will last well beyond this summer, and learned that their voices – each unique and valuable – have the power to create change.

Here’s to our amazing E4Texas cohort – you’ve inspired us all, and we can’t wait to see the incredible things you’ll accomplish over the next year!

As the leaves start to change and the excitement of a new academic year fills the air, E4Texas has been buzzing with activity! With the Fall Semester in full swing at The University of Texas at Austin, our 13 students in the 2024-25 cohort are juggling classes, career certifications, volunteering, and community events. It’s a whirlwind of learning and growth!

Diving into UT Coursework

A cornerstone of the E4Texas experience is engaging with the vibrant academic offerings at UT. Each student is required to enroll in at least one UT class this fall, and the variety is truly impressive! From Intro to Western Music to Cultural Anthropology and Contemporary Moral Problems, there’s something for everyone.

During the first week, our students met with their professors to outline goals for their audit classes, challenging themselves both academically and socially. They’re now diving into weekly classes and discussion sections, and many have already tackled their first exams or major assignments. To help them stay on track, students meet every Monday in small groups with E4Texas staff to discuss assignments, readings, and time management strategies.

Giving Back Through Volunteering

Fridays at E4Texas are all about giving back! Each student takes on the responsibility of finding and applying for volunteer opportunities that support individuals with disabilities in our community.

Some are making a difference with On the Moov, a program designed to assist disabled students in navigating campus life. Others are volunteering at the Lorraine “Grandma” Camacho Activity Center, providing outdoor recreation and cultural art programs for youth and adults in Austin.

Our students are also lending their hands to organizations like Meals on Wheels, Lifelong Learning with Friends, and Special Olympics, truly embodying the spirit of community service and mentorship.

Balancing Social Life and Studies

Even with their busy schedules, our students know how to have fun! From concerts at the Butler School of Music to thrilling UT football and soccer games, the social scene is vibrant. They’ve also enjoyed free film screenings and participated in outings like the ADAPT voter registration event, promoting disability voting rights.

For those looking to meet like-minded friends, there are clubs galore! Whether it’s the Anime Club, pick-up basketball at Gregory Gym, or adapted blazer tag and rock climbing in the Austin area, there’s always something happening.

Stay Connected with E4Texas

With so much going on, it’s an exciting time to be part of E4Texas! We’ll be sharing more updates in our newsletter and blog posts, so be sure to follow us on Instagram @E4Texas to keep up with all the incredible things our students are doing!

Here’s to a fantastic fall semester filled with learning, service, and unforgettable experiences!

Kathleen Hernandez

In today’s dynamic workforce, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and supported is essential for success. At E4Texas, we understand the importance of empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve their full potential in their chosen careers. In this post, we’ll explore the significance of providing equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities, and how our program prepares students for success as they go on to pursue meaningful careers.

Our program offers specialized career training tracks in areas such as personal care attendant, child care attendant, and paraprofessional. Through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on volunteer experience, and internship opportunities, we equip our students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to thrive in their chosen fields.

Despite facing various challenges, individuals with disabilities bring unique strengths and perspectives to the workplace. Through resilience, adaptability, determination, and first-hand experience, they demonstrate their ability to excel in diverse roles. Our curriculum focuses on harnessing a student’s individual goals and strengths, and empowering them to overcome obstacles and achieve their career goals.

Accessibility is a fundamental aspect of our program. We prioritize accessibility in all aspects, ensuring that our facilities and resources are fully accessible to individuals with disabilities. By removing barriers and providing accommodations, we create an inclusive learning environment where all students can participate and succeed.

In addition to technical skills, our curriculum emphasizes soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. These skills are essential for navigating the modern workplace and building successful careers. Through in-person engagement in out program including navigating campus and the community, completing team assignments, and getting introduced to the workplace setting, we help our students develop the confidence and professionalism needed to excel in any work environment.

Furthermore, research has shown that diverse teams are more innovative, productive, and profitable. By embracing diversity and providing equal opportunities for all individuals, organizations can gain a competitive edge and better meet the needs of their customers and clients.

In conclusion, providing equal opportunities in the workplace for people with disabilities is not only the right thing to do—it also makes good business sense! At E4Texas, we are committed to empowering our students and preparing them for success in the workplace. By harnessing their unique goals and strengths, and providing the necessary support, we can create a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone.

Kathleen Hernandez

Transitioning from high school to college can be an exciting–yet challenging– time for any student. For those with disabilities, there may be additional considerations and obstacles to overcome. In this post, we’ll explore 7 valuable tips and tools to help students and their families navigate this important transition period and set themselves up for success in their post-secondary education journey.

1. Start Early: Planning for the transition to college should ideally begin well before high school graduation! Encourage students to explore their post-secondary options early on, attend college fairs, and research colleges and universities that offer support services and accommodations for students with disabilities.
2. Know Your Rights: Students with disabilities are entitled to accommodations and support services under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. It’s essential for students and their families to understand their rights and learn how to advocate for themselves during the college application and enrollment process.
3. Connect with Transition Services: Most high schools have offices or departments dedicated to providing transition support services. Often called “transition specialists,” these professionals work with students, their families, and school staff to develop individualized transition plans that outline goals, services, and activities to support the student’s transition to adulthood. Transition specialists advocate for students with disabilities to ensure they receive appropriate accommodations, support services, and opportunities for post-school success. They also empower students to self-advocate and take ownership of their transition planning and decision-making. Encourage students to reach out to these offices early to learn about available resources and start creating a plan.
4. Develop Self-Advocacy Skills: One of the most important skills students can develop for college success (and life thereafter) is self-advocacy! Encourage students to learn how to communicate their needs effectively, ask for accommodations when necessary, and seek out support when facing challenges.
5. Get Involved: College is about more than just academics—it’s also an opportunity for personal growth and enrichment. Encourage students to get involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, and volunteer organizations that align with their interests and passions while looking into post-secondary options. This will help them build a strong support network, add valuable experience to a resume, and help them stand out in the application process.
6. Touch base with a TWC Counselor: The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) plays a key role in assisting students with disabilities in finding and attending inclusive post-secondary education opportunities through various programs and initiatives. TWC’s Vocational Rehabilitation program provides comprehensive services to people with disabilities to help them prepare for, obtain, retain, or regain employment. This includes providing guidance and support to students with disabilities who are transitioning from high school to post-secondary education or employment. VR services may include career counseling, job placement assistance, assistive technology, vocational training, and support for higher education expenses. If you are not an existing TWC customer and think you may qualify, you can do a self-referral on the TWC website; click on “Start My VR” to do a self-referral.
7. Utilize ThinkCollege: ThinkCollege.net serves as a valuable resource and support network for students with disabilities (and their families) who are navigating the transition to post-secondary education. The website’s resource library contains a wide range of downloadable materials, including fact sheets, toolkits, and research reports, covering various aspects of inclusive post-secondary education. Students can access these resources to deepen their understanding of relevant topics and gain practical guidance.

Transitioning from high school to college with a disability may present unique challenges, but with careful planning, self-advocacy, and access to support services, students can overcome obstacles and thrive in their college journey. By starting early, knowing their rights, connecting with resources, and developing self-advocacy skills, students can set themselves up for success and make the most of their college experience!

E4Texas Senior Outreach Program Coordinator

Kathleen Hernandez

Join us in celebrating National Caregivers Day on February 16th, 2024! This special day, founded by the Providers Association for Home Health & Hospice Agencies in 2016, honors the dedicated healthcare professionals who provide long-term and hospice care.

As we commemorate National Caregivers Day, we want to shine a spotlight on the crucial work being done by organizations like ADAPT of Texas to advocate for fair wages for caregivers. Today, some of our E4Texas students are attending the ADAPT of Texas meeting to amplify the voices of caregivers and advocate for equitable pay.

Caregivers (personal care attendants) play a vital role in supporting the aging population and individuals with disabilities to lead independent lives. Many of our E4Texas students graduate from our Personal Care Attendant Career Track and go on to become personal care attendants themselves. Unfortunately, caregivers often face low wages and inadequate compensation for their essential work– in Texas, the starting wage for Personal Care Attendants is just over $8 an hour, with an average hourly pay of $12.38 an hour (ranking 40th out of 50 states nationwide). Advocating for better pay for personal care attendants who play such an important role in society is a cause that’s important to both our program and our students.

ADAPT of Texas is at the forefront of the fight for fair wages for caregivers. By advocating for better pay and working conditions, they are not only supporting caregivers but also ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive the quality care they deserve. Fair wages are not just about economic stability; it’s also about recognizing the value of caregivers’ skills and contributions, and enabling them to lead dignified lives.

As we celebrate National Caregivers Day, let’s stand in solidarity with organizations like ADAPT of Texas and continue to advocate for fair wages and better conditions for caregivers everywhere. Together, we can create a future where all caregivers are valued, respected, and fairly compensated for their invaluable work. #NationalCaregiversDay #FairWages #ADAPTofTexas #E4Texas 🌟💙

Senior Outreach Program Coordinator

Kathleen Hernandez

Join E4Texas as we recognize February as Black History Month. We’re hoping you’ll take some time to reflect on intersectionality to recognize and honor the rich tapestry of experiences within the Black community, including those with disabilities. Intersectionality is a concept that acknowledges the interconnected nature of various social identities (such as race, gender, and disability), and how they cross over to shape individuals’ experiences and opportunities. Throughout history, Black individuals with disabilities have made significant contributions to society, often in the face of at least two different levels of systemic barriers and discrimination. Their stories deserve to be celebrated and remembered, not just during Black History Month, but year-round.

A commonly talked about historical figure during Black history month is Harriet Tubman– a courageous abolitionist known for her role in the Underground Railroad. What is often less recognized is that Tubman also lived with a disability. As a result of a severe head trauma sustained during her enslavement, Tubman experienced seizures and other neurological symptoms throughout her life. Despite these challenges, she fearlessly led countless enslaved individuals to freedom, embodying resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Another notable figure is the activist and scholar Audre Lorde, whose work explored the intersections of race, gender, sexuality, and disability. Lorde, who self-identified as a Black lesbian feminist poet, was also legally blind and living with chronic illness. Her writings, such as “The Cancer Journals” and “The Master’s Tools Will Not Dismantle the Master’s House,” offered profound insights into living with illness while navigating intersecting oppressions.

Claudia Gordon was advisor on disability matters to President Obama within the White House Office of Public Engagement. She holds the title of the first deaf student to graduate from American University’s law school, becoming the first Black Deaf attorney in the United States. Throughout her career, she has been (and remains) a vocal advocate for disability rights, serving in various prestigious roles such as at the National Council on Disability, Homeland Security, and the National Coalition for Disability Rights.

In addition to these individual stories, it’s crucial to recognize the broader historical context of disability within the Black community. Historically, Black individuals with disabilities have faced compounded discrimination and marginalization due to intersecting forms of oppression. From the eugenics movement to institutionalized racism within healthcare and education systems, systemic barriers have often limited opportunities for Black people with disabilities.

Despite these challenges, Black disabled activists and advocates have been at the forefront of movements for social justice and disability rights. Their activism has led to important strides in areas such as accessibility, inclusive education, and representation in media and public life.

As we reflect on Black History Month, let us honor the resilience, strength, and contributions of Black individuals with disabilities.

We’re thrilled to share a fantastic resource that aligns perfectly with our E4Texas program goals! The Center for Transition to Adult Health Care for Youth with Disabilities has just launched a website designed by and for young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). This user-friendly site, backed by ACL’s Administration on Disabilities, aims to support our students in their journey towards independent adulthood.

What makes this website special is its emphasis on empowering youth with I/DD to take control of their own healthcare needs. It provides practical tools and resources to help students, their families, and healthcare professionals navigate the crucial transition to adult health care. From understanding legal rights and responsibilities in healthcare settings to encouraging independence in managing health appointments and routines at home, this website covers it all.

Why is this important for our E4Texas learners? The website aligns perfectly with our mission to help our students with I/DD lead more independent lives. By offering resources that promote choice and control in their health care transition, this platform directly supports our program’s learning outcomes.

Here’s a surprising fact: only 14% of youth with I/DD currently receive guidance on health care transition from their doctors. This website aims to change that statistic. It’s not just about information; it’s about giving our students the tools to take charge of their health journey.

Plus, the website features contributions from partners like Family Voices, Got Transition, SPAN Parent Advocacy Network, and two University Centers of Excellence. These resources complement the excellent work happening at E4Texas, enhancing the support available to our students.

The Center for Transition to Adult Health Care for Youth with Disabilities initiative, running for five years and funded under the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act, directly aligns with the E4Texas program’s commitment to empowering independence for our learners. Dive into the website and explore the wealth of information. Let’s continue working together to empower our students and make their transition to adulthood as smooth and independent as possible!

For more details, contact Dana Fink at Dana.Fink@acl.hhs.gov.