The Arc of IL recently held its 69th Annual Convention in Lisle, IL. This organization truly recognizes the important role of siblings of people with disabilities and includes many siblings on their Board of Directors, including SLN Board member, Nora Handler. Don Meyer, the founder of the Sibling Support Project, was the powerful and exceptional Keynote Speaker for the Convention. Don also moderated a sibling panel featuring many siblings, including SLN Project Manager Amy Halm and her sister Emily, Supporting Illinois Brothers and Sisters (SIBS) Board members Nora Handler, Tara Conley, Katherine Hamann, Christine Becker, and Arc Board member and SIBS member Paul Blobaum. The prestigious Paulauski Advocate Award was given to Tamar Heller, SLN Board member and founding member, and Department Head of Department of Disability and Human Development, Institute on Disability and Human Development. SIBS Board President Benji Rubin presented 2 different breakout sessions regarding Alternatives to Guardianship and SSI & Medicaid. And the musical entertainment was provided by brothers Anthony and Nicholas Billups. And on top of it all, we had the pleasure to meet many siblings that are new to our network!
