Author Archives: Tamara Hervera
Disability Rights in a Changing Climate: Why Inclusive Emergency Planning Matters More Than Ever
Climate change is changing the way we think about emergency preparedness. Stronger hurricanes, extreme heat, flooding, wildfire smoke, and power outages are becoming more common across the country—and Florida is no exception. But while these events affect everyone, they do not affect everyone equally. For people with disabilities, a disaster can create additional barriers… Read More »
Disability Rights in a Changing Climate: Why Inclusive Emergency Planning Matters More Than Ever
Climate change is causing more hurricanes, flooding, extreme heat, and power outages. These emergencies affect everyone, but people with disabilities often face extra challenges because of barriers in transportation, communication, shelters, and access to medical equipment or support services. Disability does not make someone more vulnerable. Many risks come from emergency systems that are… Read More »
Advocacy Network on Disabilities Completes Trauma Initiative Cohort #9
The Advocacy Network on Disabilities is proud to announce the completion of its 18-month participation in the Children’s Services Council Trauma Initiative Cohort #9. During this initiative, our team looked at new ways to better support our staff and the individuals and families we serve. Our goal was to become a more trauma-informed organization…. Read More »
Hurricane Season Is Here: Let’s Get Ready Together
Hurricane season in Florida runs from June through November. Even if experts expect fewer storms this year, it only takes one hurricane to affect our homes, schools, and communities. The best time to prepare is before a storm is on the way. For people with disabilities and their families, planning ahead is especially important…. Read More »
Building a More Trauma-Informed Future
The Advocacy Network on Disabilities recently completed an 18-month trauma-informed care initiative through its partnership with the Broward Children’s Services Council. The effort led to meaningful improvements across the organization, including updates to policies, workplace environments, staff support, and client resources. More importantly, it strengthened a culture rooted in compassion, safety, and respect, helping… Read More »
Advocacy Network on Disabilities Launches Strategic Planning Initiative to Strengthen Future Impact
Leaders from the Advocacy Network on Disabilities recently convened for the first meeting of the organization’s Strategic Planning Ad-Hoc Committee, beginning an important process focused on strengthening the organization’s future impact, sustainability, and responsiveness in a rapidly changing landscape. The meeting brought together board and organizational leadership for thoughtful discussions about the opportunities and… Read More »
AND Helps Shape National Emergency Management Toolkit
The Advocacy Network on Disabilities (AND) submitted comments to the National Council on Disability (NCD) to help shape a new emergency management toolkit for state, local, tribal, and territorial communities. The toolkit is meant to help communities better prepare for and respond to emergencies in ways that include people with disabilities. Too often, emergency… Read More »



