A Letter from the Executive Director of the SLN

Dear Siblings and Sibling Supporters,

This year marks the 15^th Anniversary of the Sibling Leadership Network (SLN) and my 10^th year as the Executive Director.  It has been a privilege to be part of helping to develop the SLN from the beginning.  And, it has been an honor to serve as the founding Executive Director to build and grow the organization into what it is today.

At the end of this year, I will be transitioning from my leadership role with the SLN.  This is bittersweet for me in many ways.  The SLN will always have an important place in my heart. As many of you know, I completed my Doctorate in Disability Studies this summer and I plan to focus on research related to people with disabilities and their families in my work at the University of Illinois at Chicago.  The SLN Board created a Succession Planning Committee in June that is searching for the next Executive Director of the SLN.  I’m excited about the organization having a new leader to help bring the organization to the next level in the future.  Amy Halm, who has served as the SLN’s Associate Director, will serve as interim Executive Director during the transition process.  If you or someone you know is interested in becoming the next leader of this amazing organization, please take a look at the job description here and submit your application.

I am grateful for the Sibling Leadership Network and the amazing support that it provides to siblings of people with disabilities and their families.  My sister, Patrice, has shaped my worldview and influenced my career path. While I change my role with the SLN, I know I will continue to turn to the SLN as a sibling because the SLN has helped me to be a better sister and connects me with other siblings for the support I need on my journey. I am thankful to all the relationships I have through the SLN that support me in my life.

In celebration of the 15^th Anniversary of the SLN, our goal is to raise $15,000 in order to support even more siblings and their families.  I invite you to support the SLN by donating so we can do more to support brothers and sisters. Investing in siblings benefits people with disabilities, their entire families, and the larger community.  Your tax-deductible donation will have an important impact on our community.  You can easily donate online or by mail.  Visit the SLN’s Donations page for further details.

Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for the New Year!

Warmly,

Executive Director of SLN