Honoring 15 Years of Service

The IOD congratulates Beth Dixon & Janet Williamson

Had Beth Dixon and Janet Williamson not been parents of individuals with disabilities, they probably wouldn't have had any knowledge of the IOD, let alone even thought of working in the disability field. Beth and Janet both came to know the IOD through the NH Leadership Series, a seven-month series which supports self-advocacy and leadership skills for individuals with disabilities and their family members who wish to affect change at a personal, community, and statewide level to support the full inclusion of individuals with disabilities in their schools and communities. "Leadership changed everything for me," said Beth. "Instead of being depressed and not having positive outcomes, I was given hope and possibilities."

Fifteen years later, Beth and Janet continue to provide that same hope to a new generation of disability advocates through their own work with the NH Leadership Series, listing their years with the Leadership Series among their most rewarding experiences. "People come into Leadership angry and unhappy with how things are going for them or their family members," said Janet, "and they leave hopeful, knowing that the answers are out there for them."

"I've watched hundreds of people's visions change," said Beth. "Watching families finally 'get it' is a great experience. Parents start asking for more typical things for their kids, and pretty soon the kids are graduating high school, have new jobs, or are in college."

From all of us at the IOD, we thank you, Beth and Janet, for your tireless work to see all people, including those living with disabilities, as fully engaged members of communities, leading independent, productive, and satisfying lives. You are truly an inspiration to us all.