RCM - Revitalizing Community Membership: Empowering Independence

Acclaimed disability rights advocate Thomas Mangrum dies at 61

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 21:09:00 +0000

Thomas Magnum Jr., a lifelong D.C. resident, widely recognized and acclaimed advocate for people with disabilities, and LGBTQ rights activist involved in the city’s Capital Pride events, died Sept. 17 from complications related to stomach cancer. He was 61.

A statement released by Project ACTION!, a local disability advocacy organization for which Mangrum served for 15 years as co-president, says he worked for more than 20 years for the D.C.-based Maurice Electric Supply company before retiring in 2002 and devoting his efforts to disability-related projects and programs.

To read more on this story, click here: Acclaimed disability rights advocate Thomas Mangrum dies at 61

Their Own Words: People With Intellectual Disabilities Talk About Rape

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 18:52:00 +0000

His impact lives on:

Sharing from: Joe Shapiro:

When the language officially changed and "intellectual disability" replaced "mental retardation", L. Thomas Mangrum (below, right) told me for an NPR story he sure didn't like the old language but he wasn't a fan of the new one, either. "When you talk about intellectual disabilities, that makes you sound like you're dumb, you know, to say that." I included the D.C. self-advocate in the last story of my series on the epidemic of sexual assault of people with intellectual disabilities. He started to cry. Not when talking about the assault, but about not being believed. "They think if you've got a disability, that means you lie, that you can't really tell the truth or you don't know what the truth is." I'm sad to learn of Thomas's death at age 61. Hear his powerful voice:

To read more on this story, click here: In Their Own Words: People With Intellectual Disabilities Talk About Rape

From Brussels, Belgium to Washington, DC - Disability Support Services Face Many of the Same Challenges

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Sat, 27 Sep 2025 01:00:00 +0000

From Brussels Belgium to Washington, DC, disability support services face many of the same challenges.

This week, we're hosting our US partners ANCOR, American Network of Community Options and Resources to share experiences, learn from one another, and explore how we can build stronger support systems for people with disabilities on both sides of the Atlantic. 🇪🇺🤝🇺🇸

Good things happen when great people come together, and this is what our work is all about.

It has been great to be part of this exchange of knowledge and experiences. Working to build a more inclusive world.

EASPD Brussels

Sharing: Quality Trust for Individuals with Disabilities: We Are Deeply Saddened by the Very Recent Passing of Thomas Mangrum, Jr.

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 22:33:00 +0000

Quality Trust for Individuals with Disabilities

Click on "see more in picture below" to go to original Facebook post.

In Loving Memory of Thomas Mangrum, Jr

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 23:57:00 +0000

The RCM family remembers the incredible life of Thomas Mangrum. Thomas was a passionate and unwavering advocate for both the disability and LGBTQIA+ communities.

Thomas leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift for generations to come. The impact of his work will ripple far beyond his time with us, and we are forever grateful for the light he brought into our lives and communities. He truly left the world better than he found it.

Rest in peace our dear friend 💖

This Year Marks The 4th Anniversary Of The DC Employment First Summit, And We Want You To Be Part Of The Celebration

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 00:20:00 +0000

This year marks the 4th anniversary of the DC Employment First Summit, and we want you to be part of the celebration. Together, we’ll reflect on our progress, honor the values that guide our work, and showcase the incredible talents that strengthen our community.

What to Expect:

• Free admission

• Resource and networking fair

• Interactive learning sessions

• Opportunities to build connections and create change

• Refreshments provided

Accessibility:

Interpretation will be available in ASL, Spanish, and Amharic. Captions will be provided in English, with AI real-time translation into Spanish and Amharic. To request accommodations, contact Carla McCaskill at carla.mccaskill@dc.gov

or call/text 202-710-3049.

Who should attend?

People with disabilities, family members, advocates, educators, service providers, policymakers, employers, DC government staff, and community leaders are all welcome.

The Summit is hosted by the Employment First Planning Committee, convened by the DC Developmental Disabilities Council (DD Council), with support from community and government partners.

We look forward to celebrating Innovation, Value, and Talent with you.

When: Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Location: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G Street NW, Washington, DC

Click HERE to register:

Please Share!

This Restaurant Hires People With Autism

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 20:49:00 +0000

You’re Invited “Understanding Serious Incident Investigations” - Monday September 22, 2025

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 23:02:00 +0000

You’re invited to “Understanding Serious Incident Investigations”, an informative session hosted by RCM’s sister organization, LRA Consultants.

WHEN:

Date: Monday, September 22, 2025

Time: 4:30 PM

Platform: Zoom

This workshop is designed for people receiving supports, their families, and other key decision-makers in their lives.

Serious Incident Investigations can be confusing and, at times, disruptive—leading to unexpected staff changes, service interruptions, and difficult conversations with unfamiliar people. This workshop will help demystify the process and empower attendees with knowledge and confidence.

We’ll explore key questions, including:

• What qualifies as an incident?

• What does the investigation process involve?

• How can I identify an incident when it happens?

• What are my rights and responsibilities during an investigation?

Whether you’re directly impacted or supporting someone who is, this session will offer valuable insights and practical information.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Please Share!

Please Join Us in Thanking Sara Moody for the Wonderful Work She Does as a DSP

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 22:37:00 +0000

RCM would like to recognize Sara Moody for the wonderful work she does as a DSP. She is very caring, dependable, and truly dedicated to the individuals she supports. Sara goes above and beyond in her role, always showing patience, compassion, and professionalism. She is an asset to the team and greatly appreciated! #DSPRW2025

Please Join Us in Thanking Ms.Vanessa and Ms. Dwala for Their Hard Work and Dedication!

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 16:54:00 +0000

RCM would like to acknowledged Ms. Vanessa and Ms. Dwala for all their hard work and dedication. They love the work that they do and are a true blessing to RCM thank you ladies and Happy DSP Week! #DSPRW2025

Please Join Us in Thanking Ms. Zenobia, for Being an Amazing Direct Support Professional!

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 16:49:00 +0000

RCM would like to appreciate Ms. Zenobia for always assisting to work at both locations of SOA and T St. Thank you for being an amazing DSP! Her manager states she brings a positive attitude to work and she's always available. Thank you for being reliable! #DSPRW2025

Thank You for Your Support Octavia and Happy DSP Week!

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 16:41:00 +0000

Octavia is being highlighted for her amazing job towards the ladies at T St. She's an amazing person, always ready to work and available to care for the people she supports. She's such a gem! Her manager can always count on her to get the results we need. Thank you for your support Octavia and Happy DSP Week! #DSPRW2025

Thank You! For All You Do Jackie, Happy DSP Week!

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 21:54:00 +0000

RCM would like to show appreciation to Jackie for all her support, dedication, and hard work towards the people she supports. Her manager said she is so grateful to work with Jackie every day. Her attention to detail is incredibly valuable and appreciated towards the people of support. Thank you for all you do Jackie Happy DSP week! #DSPRW2025

Happy DSP Week! This is One of Our Rising Job Coaches!

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 21:27:00 +0000

Happy DSP Week! This is one of our rising Job Coaches! Mark supports Aydn as he performs his work duties throughout the day at Wegmans. They are a great team. #DSPRW2025

Our Trip To Hershey Park Was Exciting and Fun-Filled!

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 20:09:00 +0000

Everyone had a great time!

Special Olympics DC Participated in the Washington Commanders Clinic Yesterday!

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 18:40:00 +0000

Jonnard Butler participated in the Washington Commanders clinic with Special Olympics DC yesterday. He had a great time as usual and even got to speak on camera.

More than 50 Special Olympians visited Northwest Stadium to attend the Washington Commanders Clinic. They got the chance to meet some of the football legends.

Click once on white arrow, then click on second white arrow to start video

Please Join Us In Thanking All Direct Support Professionals at RCM for Work That They Do!

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 22:52:00 +0000

Every day, Direct Support Professionals at RCM support people with disabilities to be included and participate in our community. Please join us in thanking DSPs for the work they do year-round to make our world a better place! Today we are highlighting Kingsley Nyoung! Even when he isn’t scheduled to work specifically with someone, Kingsley doesn't hesitate to step in to ensure continuity of care. His dedication, empathy, and proactive approach make a remarkable difference in the lives of those around him.

Thank you, Kingsley, for your incredible work—you truly make a lasting impact!

#DSPRW2025

Advocating to Preserve Medicaid

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 22:02:00 +0000

Currently, advocating to preserve Medicaid is of utmost importance. Ensure that your voice is heard. Thank you ANCOR for your unwavering advocacy during these challenging times.

Happy Labor Day! A Little Cookout Hosted by Helen and Tom!

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 18:35:00 +0000

Everyone had a great time!

We Are Hiring!

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 18:24:00 +0000

We are hiring DSPs, Program Coordinators, QIDPs and LPNs click the link below to apply!

JOB OPENINGS

We Celebrated Several Birthdays in August! Happy Birthday, James, Lillian and Mr. Miller!

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 22:20:00 +0000

We celebrated several birthdays in August! Happy Birthday, James, Lillian and Mr. Miller!

💖💖💖💖💖💖

This Women's History Month, We Honor the Women who have Paved the Way for Progress

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 00:03:00 +0000

Quality Trust for Individuals with Disabilities

This Women's History Month, we honor the women who have paved the way for progress—especially the disability rights advocates, leaders, and changemakers who have fought for inclusion, accessibility, and justice.

From Judy Heumann to Fannie Lou Hamer, women with disabilities have been at the forefront of advocacy, breaking down barriers and ensuring that all voices are heard. Their resilience, leadership, and activism continue to inspire a more equitable world for future generations.

Join us in celebrating the contributions of disabled women and committing to a future where all women—of every ability—have the opportunity to thrive!

#WomensHistoryMonth #DisabilityRightsAreWomensRights #BetterTogether

On World Down Syndrome Day, We Joined Forces with CoorDown and other International Down Syndrome Organizations

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 23:59:00 +0000

On World Down Syndrome Day, We Joined Forces with CoorDown and other International Down Syndrome Organizations

National Down Syndrome Society

This #WorldDownSyndromeDay, we've joined forces with CoorDown and other international Down syndrome organizations to spread the powerful message: No Decision Without Us. 💪

People with disabilities deserve a seat at the table where decisions are made about their lives, their futures, and their rights. Let’s work together toward a world where every voice is valued. #NoDecisionWithoutUs #WDSD

( To view video, click on white arrow, then click on arrow in red circle)

Our Annual Holiday Party Was a Huge Success!

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 00:29:00 +0000

If you missed our Annual Holiday Party on December 6th, you missed a wonderful event! The evening was filled with fun, laughter and good food! Here are some pictures from the event. A great time was had by all!

Congratulations for the Most Recent Cohort of the DSP Academy!

noreply@blogger.com (Barona Whiteing-Green) — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 23:30:00 +0000

Congratulations are in order for the most recent cohort of the DSP Academy! We are so proud of each you and can’t wait to see what great things the future holds for you! #dspacademy