Author Archives: Tamara Hervera
Extreme Heat, Flooding & Hurricanes: Advancing Disability-Inclusive Climate Resilience in Miami
On March 20, 2026, as part of Miami Climate Week, the Advocacy Network on Disabilities hosted an important panel discussion titled “Extreme Heat, Flooding & Hurricanes — Building a Disability Accessible Climate Resilience Plan for Miami.” The event brought together advocates, experts, and community leaders to address a critical issue that is too often… Read More »
Miami Autism Dad Victor Antunez Visits Advocacy Network on Disabilities Staff Meeting
Recently, the Advocacy Network on Disabilities welcomed Victor Antunez, widely known as “Miami Autism Dad,” to one of our all-staff meetings for a thoughtful and energizing conversation with team members across programs. Victor stopped by to meet staff, learn more about our work, and talk about one of the most persistent challenges facing nonprofits… Read More »
Casa Familia: A New Model for Independent Living in Miami
Recently, the Advocacy Network on Disabilities had the opportunity to tour Casa Familia, an innovative independent living community designed for adults with intellectual, developmental disabilities and other disabilities. Led by Nicole Miller, from the Casa Familia team, the visit offered an in-depth look at what happens when accessibility, autonomy, and intentional design come together… Read More »
Black American Sign Language: History, Identity, and Cultural Significance
What Is Black American Sign Language? Black American Sign Language (Black ASL) is a distinct variety of American Sign Language that developed within Black Deaf communities in the United States. Like other language varieties, Black ASL has its own linguistic features, rhythms, and cultural expressions. It is not a separate language from ASL, but… Read More »
Inspiring Giving. Celebrating Impact.
Philanthropy is strongest when it reflects the full diversity of a community—and that spirit was on display at Donor Next Door, a signature event presented by PhilanthropyMiami. Donor Next Door is Miami’s annual celebration of philanthropy, created to honor the individuals whose generosity makes nonprofit work possible. From steadfast volunteers to transformational donors, the… Read More »
A Brighter 2026: Progress Through Community
The past year reminded us of a difficult truth: disability rights in the United States remain fragile, contested, and—far too often—rolled back. At the same time, it reaffirmed something just as powerful. When communities come together, when we refuse to be silent, and when we insist on a world where everyone belongs, progress is… Read More »
Honoring Dr. King on Sistrunk Boulevard: Community, Culture, and Connection
This Martin Luther King Jr. Day, our Inclusion Specialists Van Gray and Herchella “Chel” Baynes joined families, neighbors, and community leaders along Sistrunk Boulevard for Fort Lauderdale’s annual MLK Day Parade—an event rooted in history, pride, and collective purpose. Sistrunk Boulevard is more than a parade route. It is a historic African American corridor… Read More »
National Hugging Day: Why Respecting Personal Space Matters for Everyone
Every year on January 21, people across the country recognize National Hugging Day—a day meant to celebrate affection, warmth, and human connection. While hugs can be meaningful and comforting for many, this day is also an important opportunity to acknowledge something just as vital: not everyone is comfortable with physical touch—and that deserves respect…. Read More »
Advancing High-Performing Board Service: From Good to Excellent
Strong boards are essential to strong nonprofit organizations—and investing in board development is an investment in the communities we serve. Recently, board members from the Advocacy Network on Disabilities participated in a pilot leadership training titled Advancing High-Performing Board Service: From Good to Excellent, a collaborative initiative designed to strengthen nonprofit performance across Miami-Dade… Read More »
