Upcoming October and November/December DDS Forums

Thomas' memorial service last Thursday was such a positive and healing experience - he contributed so much and it was an honor to his memory.  I was inspired by him to write a little more about Project ACTION! in my most recent DClives post here: DC's Disabled Advocates: Action!

A little additional information while I have your attention:  the October 24 DDS forum will be a budget discussion with DDS Director Andy Reese so you'll definitely want to be there - and there won't be a DDS monthly forum in November, just one combined Nov/Dec one, on December 12.  

The Passing of a Beloved Friend and Advocate

It seems to me that the most important topic at this time is the passing of Thomas Mangrum (https://www.washingtonblade.com/2025/09/29/obituary-thomas-mangrum/), who played such a central role in guiding Project ACTION! and in advancing disability rights here in DC until his passing in mid-September.  He and I served on a number of committees and boards together, and whenever I saw him in person, he never failed to ask after my son.  Thomas was a force to be reckoned with, and his shoes will be hard to fill – but filled they will be.  I hope to see some of you at the service on Thursday (which I understand he planned himself – very in character 😊).  In the meantime, take a moment, if you’re financially able to do so, to make a special contribution in his memory to Quality Trust at this link:  https://qualitytrustforindividualswithdisabilities.networkforgood.com/projects/260087-celebration-of-life-for-l-thomas-mangrum-jr. 

As you’ve noticed, we still have both the DC and other National Guard troops on our streets, as well as less-recognizable federal agents, often masked.  In QT’s September CEO note, there is useful information about staying safe in these unsettling times.  You can find that here:  https://www.dcqualitytrust.org/shawns-september-ceo-note-2/

Also, since I wrote last month about plans to institute a wait list for the first time, I want to update readers about that issue.  DDS Director Reese has clarified that a full audit of DC ARPA funds needs to take place before a wait list can go into effect, and that means the startup could be as late as January 1, 2026 – a welcome delay.  Also, at Project ACTION! this past Saturday, Deputy Director Winslow Woodland said there remains a slight possibility of a midyear funding request to the DC council – he provided no details but if it happens, this could change the fundamentals.  Also, the sustainability work group that I mentioned last month has met at least twice to consider possible DDS cost savings. 

And, in case you still aren’t sure, the federal government shutdown will not have a direct impact on DC services, although in a broader sense it isn’t going to make anything easier in the DMV.