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Using Creativity as Stress Management Creativity as Stress Management How to use Simple Creative Activities to Manage Stress Every Day By: Ed Carter August 2026 For disabled adults balancing work, care needs, appointments, and unpredictable symptoms, stress can stack up fast and linger long after the day ends. Pain, fatigue, sensory overload, and access barriers often make common stress fixes feel unrealistic, which can leave emotional well-being and disability support disconnected. Creative stress management offers another option: small, accessible creative pursuits that meet people where they are and don’t require special skills, extra energy, or perfect conditions. With inclusive stress relief methods, creativity can become a steady way to support emotional well-being. Understanding Why Creativity Calms the System Creativity helps with stress because it gives your brain a safe, structured place to put attention. Making something, noticing small details, and finishing a tiny piece can slow racing thoughts and cue the body to downshift. The field of art therapy describes real therapeutic benefits from simple creative activity, even when words feel hard. This matters because stress relief becomes more reliable when it fits your capacity that day. Disability-inclusive wellness keeps the goal flexible, not the tools. Adaptive options like voice-to-text, larger grips, switch controls, or one-tap apps make creative calming more reachable. Imagine you edit one photo for three minutes. You choose one color tweak, add a sticker, then save it. That small finish line can feel like a reset button when pain or overload makes bigger tasks impossible. With that in mind, a simple photo-to-art method can make daily stress relief easier to try . Try AI Image-to-Image Art in 10 Gentle Minutes When your nervous system is already looking for a sense of safety, a creative option that reduces pressure and decision-making can feel especially soothing. If you’re curious about AI art but don’t know where to begin, try an image-to-image approach: pick a photo or existing artwork you already have, upload it, and describe how you want it transformed. Keep it simple and low-stakes, ask for a different style, a new setting, a calmer color palette, or a few specific visual details you’d like to see changed. Because you’re starting from something concrete, you don’t need advanced drawing skills to get an interesting result, and you can experiment by adjusting just one detail at a time . Many tools also let you add a reference image to guide the overall look, which can be helpful if you want the output to lean toward a particular mood or aesthetic without having to explain it perfectly in words. For a clear example of how this works, explore Adobe Firefly image to image and notice how uploading an image plus a short description can be enough to spark new ideas. Disability-Friendly Creative Habits for Daily Calm Habits work because they remove guesswork on hard days. By repeating a few low-pressure creative practices, you build a reliable path from “keyed up” to “settled,” with options that flex for pain, fatigue, or sensory needs . Two-Minute Color Scan What it is: Pick two calming colors and fill a small square, page corner, or sticky note. How often: Daily Why it helps: It quickly narrows attention and softens mental noise. One-Change Image Remix What it is: Rework one saved image by changing only one element like background, lighting, or texture. How often: Three times weekly Why it helps: Small edits feel safe and restore a sense of control. Sensory-Safe Collage Tray What it is: Keep a tray of textures and images that feel okay, then assemble one quick collage. How often: Weekly Why it helps: It adapts your environment, echoing the social model of disability . Five-Line Creative Log What it is: Write five short lines describing what you see, hear, or imagine right now. How often: Daily Why it helps: It turns vague stress into clearer, manageable pieces. Set a “Good-Enough” Timer What it is: Use a 5 to 10 minute timer and stop when it ends, even mid-project. How often: Daily Why it helps: Predictable endpoints reduce overwhelm, especially since 1 in 4 adults has a disability. Daily Creative Stress-Relief Setup Checklist This checklist turns creative stress relief into a plan you can actually follow, even when your brain feels busy. Use it to choose one small practice, prepare your space, and adjust without quitting . ✔ Choose one activity for this week and name it clearly ✔ Gather only three tools and store them together ✔ Set a 5 to 10 minute timer and a gentle stop rule ✔ Schedule two tiny sessions on your calendar ✔ Track one before and after feeling word in your notes ✔ Adjust for low-energy days with a seated or lighter option ✔ Reset your setup immediately after finishing to reduce friction Small steps count, especially on hard days. Build Daily Emotional Resilience With One Repeatable Creative Habit Stress rarely arrives on schedule, and it’s easy to drop the very habits that help when life feels too full. The steadier approach is encouraging ongoing creativity through small, repeatable sessions and gentle reflection on stress management, treating art as a daily regulation practice rather than a performance. Over time, sustained creative practice helps you notice triggers sooner, recover faster, and build emotional resilience through art in a way that feels realistic. Small art, repeated often, is a reliable way to calm your nervous system.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS List of Directors Sarah Rhein , President Christina Jumper, President Elect Andrew Holston, Treasurer Cathy Reed. MAL Vanessa Cain Emilee Dearing Whitney Price Sheila Radochio Susan Given, Executive Director Board Application Packet (PDF Format) Board of Directors Application Packet Board of Directors Application Form

Disability Rights of West Virginia protects and advocates for the human and legal rights of persons with disabilities. DRWV provides information and referral services to people with disabilities, families, and other interested parties. Disability Rights of West Virginia (DRWV) is the federally mandated protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities in West Virginia. DRWV is a private, nonprofit agency. Our services are confidential and free of charge. Removing Barriers to Opportunity and Equality If you would like to schedule a presentation, an outreach event, or need brochures for distribution, please contact DRWV at 304-346-0847 or email us at contact@drofwv.org . Learn more and how to apply Disability Rights of West Virginia (DRWV) is accepting applications for its Board of Directors with terms beginning October 1, 2026. The deadline to apply is July 31, 2026 . DRWV is the West Virginia federally mandated protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities. DRWV is a private, non-profit agency. DRWV welcomes applicants who bring relevant experience, sound judgment, and a commitment to the organization’s mission. Together we can change how people perceive mental illness. The Protection & Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) Advisory Council is seeking PAIMI Advisory Council Members! We currently have four vacancies on our PAIMI Advisory Council. We are looking for individuals who have received or are receiving mental health services, and family members of individuals who have received or are receiving mental health services, mental health professionals, mental health providers and primary caregivers of minors with mental illness. Learn more PAIMI Advisory Council Application LATEST NEWS Disability Rights of WV Fiscal Year 2026 Priorities and Objectives See our past year in review: Our 2025 Annual Report is now available! Our Emergency Services Communication Board is now on our website for you to view and print! Powered by STABLE ABLE Accounts give people with special needs more independence and financial security To learn more about ABLE, click here You can make a difference! By giving, you will help Disability Rights of West Virginia serve more people with disabilities. DRWV is a non-profit organization that advocates for West Virginia residents with disabilities. Donate Disability Rights of West Virginia truly appreciates the generosity of our supporters! Please check out our YouTube Channel to see informative videos such as the one on the right entitled: Working while receiving Social Security Benefits. Please Subscribe to Our Channel Below:

Interviews, Stories and Articles Interview with Adam Dean, Esq. Top Tips for Aspiring Politicians with Disabilities by Ed Carter How Technology Can Help People With Disabilities In Their Careers by Ed Carter Tips for Navigating Entrepreneurship as a Parent with a Disability by Ed Carter The More You Know: Understanding Differently Abled House Hunting by Ed Carter Why and How to Recruit Employees with Disabilities by Ed Carter House Hunting for Accessibility by Ed Carter The Adaptive Entrepreneur: Tailoring Your Business to Fit Your Needs by Ed Carter Thriving in the Workforce: Business Opportunities for Young Adults with Disabilities by Ed Carter Creating an Inclusive Shopping Experience: How Retailers Can Cater to Customers with Disabilities by Ed Carter How Employers can Break Employment Barriers: Boosting Jobs for People with Disabilities by Ed Carter Thoughtful Career Growth Strategies: Practical Strategies for Professionals with Disabilities by Ed Carter Small Business Accessibility: Make Your West Virginia Small Business Welcoming for Every Customer by Ed Carter Relocating for Work with a Disability: How to Relocate without Stress or Extra Costs by Ed Carter Creativity as Stress Management: How to use Simple Creative Activities to Manage Stress Every Day by Ed Carter

CRIMINAL/JUVENILE JUSTICE A Guide to Re-entry Planning for Prisoners Living with Mental Illnesses NAMI's re-entry guide walks you through getting health care, ID, housing, benefits and other necessities to help you succeed. American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) National Prison Project Dedicated to ensuring that our nation's prisons, jails, juvenile facilities and immigration detention centers comply with the Constitution, federal law, and international human rights principles, and to addressing the crisis of over-incarceration in the U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act Information for Law Enforcement Compliance assistance materials will help state and local law enforcement officers understand how to interact with victims, witnesses, suspects, and others who have disabilities. Americans with Disabilities Act Title II and Title III Revised Regulations Fact Sheet Series – Detention & Correctional Facilities A fact sheet from the ADA Network. Bazelon Center Judge David L. Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law. Bazelon Center's Publications for Individuals Involved in the Criminal Justice System The Bazelon Center produces reports, issue papers and manuals that analyze major federal laws, policies and regulations that affect access to services and the rights of people with mental disabilities. Building Bridges: An Act to Reduce Recidivism by Improving Access to Benefits for Individuals with Psychiatric Disabilities upon Release from Incarceration Building Bridges offers states a strategy to reduce recidivism and help recently released inmates with psychiatric disabilities successfully transition to community life. Center for Law and Education: When Schools Criminalize Disability When Schools Criminalize Disability: Education Law Strategies for Legal Advocates explores various legal theories and strategies for challenging inappropriate school-initiated delinquency petitions and crime reports, and addressing their aftermath. Center for Mental Health Services GAINS Center The CMHS National GAINS Center has operated since 1995 as a national locus for the collection and dissemination of information about effective mental health and substance abuse services for people with co-occurring disorders in contact with the justice system. Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA) U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division: Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA) Coordinating Council on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Coordinates all federal juvenile delinquency prevention programs, all federal programs and activities that detain or care for unaccompanied juveniles, and all federal programs relating to missing and exploited children. Fair Shake Reentry Resource Center Fair Shake is dedicated to supporting the successful reintegration of formerly incarcerated people into society. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Police Brutality Complaints If you have a complaint of police brutality or the abuse of your rights by the police or other public officials, contact the nearest office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Federal Bureau of Prisons Federal Bureau of Prisons homepage - locate prisoners, facilities, and other information. Financial Recovery Resource Guide for the Formerly Incarcerated Starting over after incarceration can be hard. In this guide, you’ll find information on how to update your IDs, find temporary housing, and fix your credit score after being released from prison. Legal Action Center LAC is a non-profit public interest law firm and policy organization that specializes in fighting discrimination against and protecting the rights of people with alcohol or drug problems, HIV/AIDS, or criminal records. NAMI's CIT Programs CIT (Crisis Intervention Team) programs are local initiatives designed to improve the way law enforcement and the community respond to people experiencing mental health crises. They are built on strong partnerships between law enforcement, mental health provider agencies and individuals and families affected by mental illness. Office for Victims of Crimes The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) was established by the 1984 Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) to oversee diverse programs that benefit victims of crime. Police Response to People with Disabilities Eight-Part Series - Designed for use in roll-call training, this videotape addresses law enforcement situations involving people who have mobility disabilities, mental illnesses, intellectual disabilities, epilepsy or seizure disorders, speech disabilities, deafness or hard of hearing, and blindness or low vision. The eight segments range from 5 to 10 minutes in length. Reentry Housing Options: The Policymakers' Guide Provides practical steps that lawmakers and others can take to increase public safety through better access to affordable housing for individuals released to the community. SB 232: West Virginia Strategic Plan: Diversions of Justice-Involved Individuals Strategic plan for West Virginia to use the Sequential Intercept Model to divert adults and juveniles with mental illness, developmental disabilities, cognitive disabilities, and substance use disorders away from the criminal justice system into treatment and to promote continuity of care and interventions. The Jailhouse Lawyer's Handbook How to bring a federal lawsuit to challenge violations of your rights in prison. A booklet published by the Center for Constitutional Rights. The National Resource Center for Children and Families of the Incarcerated at Family and Corrections Network NRCCFI is the oldest and largest organization in the U.S. focused on children and families of the incarcerated and programs that serve them. U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division To File a Complaint about:1: An institution - complaints about institutions such as jails, prisons, juvenile facilities, developmental disability/mental retardation facilities, mental health facilities or nursing homes. 2: A law enforcement agency - complaints about law enforcement agencies, such as police or sheriff's departments. 3: Access Act violations - interference with access to reproductive health clinics or places of religious worship. West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation The West Virginia Division of Corrections - locate inmates, facilities, and information. West Virginia Guidebook for Incarcerated Veterans Intended to provide current information to assist incarcerated veterans in West Virginia to access benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs. West Virginia Public Defender Services Homepage of the West Virginia Public Defender Services. West Virginia Regional Jail and Correctional Facility Authority WV Regional Jail and Correctional Facility Authority - locate inmates, facilities, and information.

Protection and Advocacy for Assistive Technology (PAAT) PAAT was created in 1994 when Congress expanded the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with disabilities Act (Tech Act). This program was formed to help individuals with disabilities obtain assistive technology devices and services. Eligibility Criteria A PAAT client must need assistance accessing Assistive Technology Services or Devices. Funding Source U.S. Department of Education, Rehabilitation Services Administration PAAT Publications PAAT Brochure

LEGAL REFERRAL RESOURCES AND LEGAL INFORMATION American Bar Association Commission on Disability Rights The Commission carries out an array of projects and activities addressing disability-related public policy, disability law, and the professional needs of lawyers and law students with disabilities. American Civil Liberties Union of West Virginia A non-partisan, non-profit membership organization whose mission is to fulfill the promise of the Bill of Rights for all West Virginians and expand the reach of its guarantees to new areas. Bazelon Center Judge David L. Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law. Cornell University Law School Legal Information Institute A small research, engineering, and editorial group housed at the Cornell Law School in Ithaca, NY. Our collaborators include publishers, legal scholars, computer scientists, government agencies, and other groups and individuals that promote open access to law, worldwide. Disability Law Handbook This handbook is a broad overview of rights and obligations under federal disability laws. Individual state laws may impose more stringent obligations. This handbook is intended to inform rather than to advise, and the information provided is of a general nature. You should consult an attorney for advice about your particular situation. FindLaw.com FindLaw provides legal information, lawyer profiles and a community to help you make the best legal decisions. LawHelp.org LawHelp helps low and moderate income people find free legal aid programs in their communities, and answers to questions about their legal rights. Legal Aid of West Virginia Legal Aid of West Virginia provides free advocacy services to West Virginians. Legal Aid of West Virginia – Guardianship/Conservatorship Information Contains information about guardianship and conservatorship in West Virginia. Managing Someone Else's Money Guides The guides help you to be a financial caregiver in three ways: They walk you through your duties; they tell you how to watch out for scams and financial exploitation, and what to do if your loved one is a victim; and, they tell you where you can go for help. National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives Whether you are claiming benefits or providing representation, NOSSCR offers you services, information and support. National Veterans Legal Services Program The National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP) is an independent nonprofit organization that has worked since 1980 to ensure that the U.S. government keeps its pact with our nation's 25 million veterans and active duty personnel by providing them the federal benefits they have earned through their service to our country. Office for Civil Rights (OCR) U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights Federal homepage. Civil rights laws and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy Rule, together protect your fundamental rights of nondiscrimination and privacy. This site has links and information to file an OCR complaint. Pine Tree Legal Assistance Provides a list of organizations listed by state that provide free legal assistance to eligible clients. The National Legal Aid and Defender Association (NLADA) This country?s oldest and largest nonprofit association of individual legal professionals and legal organizations devoted to ensuring the delivery of legal services to the poor. U.S. Department of Justice To enforce the law and defend the interests of the United States according to the law; to ensure public safety against threats foreign and domestic; to provide federal leadership in preventing and controlling crime; to seek just punishment for those guilty of unlawful behavior; and to ensure fair and impartial administration of justice for all Americans. U.S. Department of Justice Guide to Disability Rights Laws This guide provides an overview of Federal civil rights laws that ensure equal opportunity for people with disabilities. UPSOLVE Our nonprofit helps you file for bankruptcy for free, guiding you every step of the way. West Virginia Advance Directive Planning for Important Healthcare Decisions Caring Connections provides free advance directives and instructions for each state that can be opened as a PDF (Portable Document Format) file. These materials are copyrighted by Caring Connections. Permission is granted to download a single copy of any portion of these texts. Use by individuals for personal and family benefit is specifically authorized and encouraged. Further copies or publication are prohibited without express written permission. West Virginia Court System Self-Help Center This on-line self-help center has been designed to provide valuable information to those persons wishing to represent themselves in court. West Virginia Guardianship and Conservatorship Handbook A Guide For Court-Appointed Guardians and Conservators West Virginia Judicial Investigation Commission Complaints To file a complaint concerning a justice, circuit judge, family court judge, magistrate, mental hygiene commissioner, juvenile referee, special commissioner or special master. West Virginia Legal Services This site is a cooperative project of civil legal services providers in West Virginia. It is designed to help clients, practitioners and members of the public to understand our legal system and use it to pursue their just claims. West Virginia Legal Services – Pro Se Forms and Information for Clients Self-help materials. West Virginia Office of Disciplinary Council The Lawyer Disciplinary Board, with the assistance of the Office of Disciplinary Counsel, has jurisdiction to investigate complaints regarding violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct; to hold hearings; and to make recommendations with respect to disciplinary action to be taken against lawyers. West Virginia Social Security Lawyers A directory of Social Security lawyers across West Virginia and the country. West Virginia State Bar The homepage of West Virginia's State Bar. West Virginia State Code A direct link to the searchable portion of the West Virginia Legislature website for locating sections of the State Code. West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals Homepage of the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals. West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals Access to Justice Office – Interpreters Contains information on the West Virginia Supreme Court’s Access to Justice office, which coordinates the provision of sign language services in West Virginia courts. West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals Accessibility Information This page provides information on how to request an ADA accommodation to access a state court.

2021 July NEWS LETTER Disability Rights of West Virginia Housing Accommodations and Modifications for People with Disabilities Article by Regina Desmond, DRWV Senior Advocate Under West Virginia’s Fair Housing Act (FHA), a landlord cannot discriminate against an applicant because of the applicant’s: Race; Color; Religion; Sex; Handicap (disability); Familial Status (presence of children 18 years old or younger, pregnant women, or persons anticipating adoption); National Origin; Blindness; or Ancestry. Private housing, housing that receives federal financial assistance, and state and local housing with certain exceptions are all protected under the Federal and State Fair Housing Act. The Federal Fair Housing Act requires accommodation in policies and operations for persons with disabilities if the accommodation is reasonable and necessary to afford persons with disabilities equal opportunity to use and enjoy housing. A reasonable accommodation is a change, exception, or adjustment to a property rule, policy, practice, or service. Some examples of reasonable accommodations are: adjusting the date rent is due to correlate with social security; assigning a lower mailbox; designating a parking area; permitting a Service or Emotional Support Animal to live in no-pethousing; waiving a pet fee and/or security deposit for a Service or Emotional Support Animal; permitting a live-in Personal Care Attendant to live with a resident who has a disability and might need 24-hour assistance or the waiving of any guest fees or rules due to this need. Landlords are also required to allow tenants with disabilities to make reasonable access-related modifications to their private living space. A reasonable modification is a structural change made to the premises. In most cases, the landlord is not required to pay for the changes in private living spaces. Tenants need to seek permission prior to completing modifications. Some examples of modifications include: installing an entrance ramp; modifying doorknobs to levers for someone with dexterity impairments; modifying a bathtub so that it is walk-in; allowing installation of handrails in the restroom. Owners of housing facilities may also be required to make changes to private living spaces and to common-use areas in buildings constructed after March 13, 1999. Public areas, such as the rental office, meeting room, laundry rooms, etc. should also be accessible if they are open to the public. DRWV suggests that all requests for accommodations or modification be made in writing. It is also important to note that just because a tenant requests a specific accommodation or modification, that does not necessarily mean that the request will be approved. It also should not flatly be denied. There should be discussions held about the tenant’s needs and how those needs can be met. Who pays for a reasonable accommodation? Private Housing In private housing, a housing provider/landlord may require that the tenant/resident pay for the cost of the modification and request that funds be set aside to restore the unit to its original condition before the modification (except for reasonable wear & tear). The housing provider may also request that a licensed contractor be obtained to make the modification and/or restoration, if applicable. Government Subsidized Housing In government subsidized housing (Section 504, rural development, housing set up for those with disabilities, etc.), the housing provider typically pays for the modification unless it is an undue administrative or financial burden. If you have questions or concerns about your rights as a tenant with a disability, please call DRWV at 800-950-5250 .

NEWS LETTER May Disability Rights of West Virginia Foster Care and Special Education 2022 Article by Lori Waller, DRWV Staff Attorney Thirty to fifty percent of children in foster care are eligible for special education services as opposed to the fifteen percent or less of children not in care who are eligible for special education services. Children in foster care also are three times more likely to be expelled and twice as likely to be absent. [1] Children in foster care receive harsher discipline—including more frequent suspensions, expulsions, and police intervention—than their non-foster care peers as well. [2] This practice adversely affects their academic achievement. Additionally, children in foster care are more likely to have at least one disability as compared to children not in care. [3] It is clear many children in foster care need special education services. Placement in foster care uproots a child and places that child in a different living situation. With a change in living situations, a child also may experience a change in school placement. For the child, this means making new friends and learning new rules as well as adjusting to a new classroom. All this change can create instability in a child’s life, making academic and behavioral supports even more important to educational success. Educational Stability Plan Under federal law, a child welfare agency, such as the Department of Health and Human Resources (“DHHR”), must create an educational stability plan for each child in care. The plan must include the following: 1) an assurance that each placement of the child in foster care takes into account the appropriateness of the current educational setting and the proximity to the school in which the child was enrolled at the time of placement; and 2) an assurance that the child welfare agency has coordinated with the local school to ensure the child can remain in that school, or if remaining in that school is not in the child’s best interest, an assurance that the child will be enrolled immediately in a new school and that the new school obtains relevant academic and other records. This plan is in place throughout the time a child is in foster care and should be considered before a change in placement. Special Education Services Any child in foster care who is eligible for special education services needs to receive those services as well. Special education services help a child be successful in the classroom. Likewise, some children coming into foster care have not yet been evaluated for special education services and will need to be referred for an evaluation for services. Whether a child in foster care is currently receiving services or needs to be evaluated for services, meeting the educational needs of the child is one of the biggest responsibilities of the foster care system. Educational needs are often overlooked when a family is in crisis and many children come into foster care already performing at a level below that of their peers. Caseworkers and foster parents can call Disability Rights of West Virginia (DRWV) for assistance with navigating the special education system. Currently, DRWV is involved with a group of attorneys who have filed a class action against DHHR for failing to provide needed services to children in foster care. It is hoped this class action will lead to a change in policies and procedures and to an overall improvement in the foster care experience for any child coming into care. Client Comments Why we do what we do "My advocate is doing a real good job and I’m happy." "I’m very pleased with my advocate. She’s very helpful." [1] Nat'l Working Grp. on Foster Care & Educ., Fostering Success in Education: National Factsheet on the Educational Outcomes of Children in Foster Care 1 (2014), available at www.fostercareandeducation.org/DesktopModules/Bring2mind/DMX/Download.aspx?EntryId=1279&Command=Core_Download&method=inline&PortalId=0&TabId=124. [2] North American Council on Adoptable Children, Position Paper “Educational Needs of Children in Foster Care and Adoption,” available at: https://nacac.org/advocate/nacacs-positions/educational-needs/. [3] Kelly Henderson, Ph.D., “Finding the Sweet Spot: Foster Care, Disability and Special Education,” July 7, 2021, available at: https://fosteringfamiliestoday.com/fostering-families-today-feature/finding-the-sweet-spot-foster-care-disability-and-special-education/#:~:text=Prevalence%20rates%20for%20children%20in,studies%20in%20the%20last%20decade .

See DRWV in action. DRWV ADVOCACY IN MOTION Through our advocacy efforts, read how DRWV plays a crucial role in advancing disability rights in West Virginia, addressing systemic issues, and ensuring that individuals with disabilities can lead full, integrated lives with access to opportunities that promote self-direction and independence. 4/6/26 - National Public Radio (NPR) These blind students say their college blocked their education. A new rule could help. 11/26/25 - WCHS Barboursville School to close in February, widens mental health placement gaps in W.Va. 11/11/25 - West Virginia University Foundation Swinging big: Private support helps WVU College of Law students explore public interest law, serve W.Va. residents. 7/9/25 - West Virginia Watch Costs for WV psych hospital top $128M; community homes for people with disabilities still lag. 6/26/25 - West Virginia Watch Federal budget proposals would cut programs for West Virginians with disabilities. GOP-led efforts to curb spending would slash funding for myriad of programs that help adults and children with disabilities in the rural state. 6/4/25 - WAJR - The Voice of Morgantown Problems within the West Virginia Department of Health Facilities are a continuing issue for Disability Rights of West Virginia. 5/30/25 - WCHS Eyewitness News Advocates encouraged by child welfare reforms in West Virginia. West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey's plan to bring more transparency to the state's child welfare system is already getting a welcome reception from those who have long been asking for it. 3/31/25 - West Virginia Watch $70M spent sending WV foster children to out-of-state facilities, some with abuse allegations. 3/20/25 - National Federation of the Blind National Federation of the Blind and Blind Students Sue West Virginia University for Discrimination. 2/13/25 - WOWK 13 News What is Section 504? West Virginia joins lawsuit sparking disability rights concerns. 1/12/25 - Metro News Disability Rights of West Virginia lawsuit targets contract workers at state-run health facilities. 1/9/25 - West Virginia Watch WV hospital workers face charges over Hopemont patient’s death. 1/8/25 - Metro News Two Hopemont Hospital workers charged in patient’s death. 1/8/25 - WV Public Broadcasting Two Nurses Charged With Criminal Neglect In Patient’s Boiling Death. 11/27/24 - West Virginia Watch West Virginia solicits company to manage its contract nurses, won’t answer questions. Since 2015, the state has spent $284 million on contract positions in state-run facilities, including long-term and psychiatric care. 10/10/24 - West Virginia Public Broadcasting Watchdog Agency Announces Plan To Sue State Secretary Of Health Facilities. Disability Rights of West Virginia (DRWV) sent a notice of claim Monday to members of the media and state officials, alleging that Michael Caruso, secretary of the Department of Health Facilities (DHF) is failing to protect the rights of patients served by state health care facilities. Michael Folio, the legal director of DRWV, alleged that the quality of care at these facilities is suffering because mandatory reporters are not sufficiently reporting instances of suspected abuse. Under state law, a mandatory reporter is a person legally required to report suspected abuse or neglect of vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly and people with disabilities. 7/3/24 - WCHS Eyewitness News Delegate suggests surplus could be used to build new Mildred Mitchell-Bateman Hospital. Michael Folio, legal director for Disability Rights of West Virginia, worries that this potential allocation would be misguided. For years, he has called on the state to do something about the "warehousing" of patients in state facilities who could be better served in the community on waiver and community-based programs and save the taxpayers money. 6/13/24 - NBC News A foster care system in crisis: West Virginia faces a legal reckoning West Virginia faces a legal reckoning. A sweeping class-action lawsuit accusing the state of failing to protect its foster children appears set to go to trial in the fall. The federal suit could force dramatic changes in how the system is run. 5/31/24 - Hoppy Kercheval on X Breaking: Sources say Justice Admin is planning for a press conference late next week, possibly Thursday, to release details of its investigation into how State Police and CPS handled the case of a 14-year-old Boone County girl who eventually died and was found in skeletal state. 5/29/24 - WOWK 13 News A high-ranking member of West Virginia’s foster care system has resigned, and it’s raising concerns about the agency. Pamela Woodman-Kaehler resigned her position as foster care ombudsman in West Virginia, a position she has held since 2019, when the job was first created. “She was a champion for children. Sadly however, the leadership of the agency did not give her the support necessary so that she could actually thrive in her position,” said Mike Folio, Legal Director for Disability Rights of West Virginia. 5/28/24 - Metro News The ombudsman for West Virginia’s overloaded foster care system has resigned, according to the state Department of Health. Pamela Woodman-Kaehler’s resignation will take effect June 6. The resignation of Pamela Woodman-Kaehler is a sad chapter in DHHR’s and DoHS’ failed history to protect vulnerable children,” said Mike Folio, legal director for Disability Rights West Virginia. 5/28/24 - WSAZ News Channel 3 W.Va. Department of Health official announces resignation. Michael Folio, legal director for Disability Rights of West Virginia, released the following statement: “The resignation of Pamela Woodman-Kaehler is a sad chapter in DHHR’s and DoHS’ failed history to protect vulnerable children. Sworn testimony exists that shows former DHHR Sec. Bill Crouch and current DoHS Deputy Secretary Cammie Chapman have meddled in the Foster Care Ombudsman’s affairs, directed her to conceal information from the Legislature, and withheld information from her that would have enabled her to conduct investigations to protect the state’s vulnerable children. Pam is a champion for children and her resignation is a sad chapter in the state’s failure to safeguard children.” 5/28/24 - West Virginia Public Broadcasting Disability Rights West Virginia (DRWV) has filed a lawsuit on behalf of an adult male, referred to as J.P., with developmental disabilities that says he has been physically abused and wrongfully held at William R. Sharpe Hospital for more than 570 days. 5/24/24 - WCHS TV 8 Eyewitness News There are new developments in the death of a Boone County teenager as a notice of a lawsuit was filed Thursday. Disability Rights WV legal director Mike Folio filed a notice of suit and cease and desist against West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice and Department of Human Services Cabinet Secretary Cynthia Persily in the death of 14-year-old Kyneddi Miller. "It's reached the point where there is level of deception, a level of concealment and no one is focused on the young girl who died," Folio said. 5/23/24 - WOWK 13 News Disability Rights of WV plan to sue Gov. Jim Justice, Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, the Department of Human Services and its secretary, Cynthia Persily over the alleged concealment of documents relating to the death of a Boone County child. They allege the governor’s office and the Department of Human Services have held documents about child abuse cases, investigations and findings that are federally mandated to be publicly disclosed to “evade accountability.” 5/23/24 - WSAZ News Channel 3 An advocacy system has put West Virginia officials on notice as it considers a potential lawsuit alleging state officials have violated state law in refusing to disclose records pertaining to the alleged child neglect death of Kyneddi Miller, 14, of Boone County. Disability Rights of West Virginia says it sent the notice Thursday to Gov. Jim Justice, Department of Human Services Secretary Cynthia Persily and Attorney General Patrick Morrisey. 5/13/24 - West Virginia Watch Patient sues Sharpe Hospital, says he was wrongfully held there for more than 570 days and abused. 5/9/24 - 12WBOY Disability Rights of West Virginia (DRWV) has filed a civil complaint against Sharpe Hospital, its administrators, the Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Health Facilities and the Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Human Services. The suit, claims that an adult male with a developmental disability was illegally discharged from a group home in Wood County, unlawfully committed to Sharpe Hospital in Lewis County and has been “battered and physically abused.” 4/16/24 - 12WBOY West Virginia disability rights advocates protest cuts in state budget. On Sunday, advocates and families of people with intellectual disabilities rallied at the state capital in Charleston to protest a 10% budget cut to the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Waiver. The IDD Waiver provides financial aid to help families pay for at-home or community-based care for their loved ones with intellectual disabilities instead of having them committed to a state psychiatric hospital. Disability Rights of West Virginia’s Legal Director Michael Folio has called the waiver “a lifeline.” 4/16/24 - West Virginia Watch Lawmakers say Justice admin canceled meeting to discuss man’s gruesome death in state hospital. ‘This is a cover up. Plain and simple,’ said Mike Folio, legal director for Disability Rights West Virginia, who was scheduled to speak with lawmakers. 4/3/24 - West Virginia Public Broadcasting W.Va. Grapples With IDD Waiver Program In the final hours of the 2024 regular legislative session, lawmakers passed a budget that cut funding for IDD waivers. “They failed to do the required financial analysis to determine the impact of cutting the IDD waiver budget,” Folio said. “We have hundreds of thousands of people in West Virginia that are going to be affected — can you imagine, can you imagine the good work that we did and now we could possibly hurt those folks?” Justice said. 3/20/24 - People Magazine Elderly Non-Verbal Patient Died After Reportedly Being Left in 134-Degree Whirlpool at Care Facility. Four people were reportedly fired in connection with the Jan. 4 incident at Hopemont Hospital in Terra Alta, West Virginia 3/18/24 - West Virginia Watch ‘His skin melted off’ — Elderly man in state care dies after being left in scalding water. Three contract nurses at a state-run hospital were fired after the patient’s death. The incident has raised more concerns about how the state health department vets staff who care for vulnerable individuals. 3/14/24 - WOWK 13 News Advocates, families want to see more funding towards IDD program following $11 million cut. 1/24/24 - Mountain State Spotlight People with disabilities are stuck at state hospitals. Lawmakers and patient advocates disagree on where they should go next. 1/24/24 - West Virginia Watch House committee passes controversial plan to build facility for patients with disabilities. Citing “no real solutions,” House lawmakers are moving forward with a plan to build a new facility for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The proposal has been met with sharp criticism from those who advocate for and serve patients with disabilities; they say the bill will further trap individuals in institutions without proper support. 1/19/24 - West Virginia Watch Teachers need student discipline support. State lawmakers will try to address a complicated issue. School discipline issues have spiked post pandemic, and West Virginia is one of several states that have already enacted stricter punishments for disruptive students. Lawmakers said they’ll be doing much more to address student discipline issues, mostly focusing on protecting teachers and bolstering their ability to remove disruptive students. There’s already legislation that expands last year’s discipline bill into elementary schools. Holly Sheldon, a senior advocate with Disability Rights West Virginia, said schools are already failing to follow students’ IEP and behavior intervention plans, resulting in students being unfairly disciplined. “Children with a disability require assessments and services and not discipline, classroom removal or expulsion. Schools cannot discipline the disability out of a student,” she said. 1/18/24 - West Virginia Watch What are we waiting for? Legislators, our child welfare system needs immediate action. Do you remember the old Dutch tale about a boy who stuck his finger in a leaking dike to save his country from a great flood? It’s a story about courage and conviction in taking action to prevent the devastation of immediate danger. We are at a similar juncture with the plight of West Virginia’s child welfare system — and ours is no tale. 1/17/24 - West Virginia Watch Judge considers ‘proper sanctions’ against state health department over deleted foster care emails. ‘You guys really didn’t do that much to protect it,’ a federal judge told health department attorneys and leaders on Wednesday. 1/16/24 - West Virginia Public Broadcasting Attorneys Seek Sanctions In Delayed Lawsuit Against DHHR. Attorneys say they have new evidence that shows the now split West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) purposely deleted emails related to a class action lawsuit. Plaintiffs in the suit, A Better Childhood, a New York-based nonprofit, along with Shafer and Shafer and Disability Rights West Virginia, recently asked for sanctions in the case due to lack of evidence retention from the defendants. 1/10/24 - West Virginia Watch Isn’t it time for the West Virginia Legislature to face the truth about Sharpe Hospital? During the 2023 legislative session, the West Virginia Legislature enacted House Bill 2006 that split the Department of Health and Human Resources into three agencies amid criticism of mismanagement, nonfeasance and retaliation. The bill required DHHR to create a “long-term sustainability plan for each state health facility” by Dec. 1, 2023. The deadline has passed and DHHR has presented no formal plan to sustain the state’s seven health care facilities — one acute, four long-term care and two psychiatric facilities. 1/9/24 - West Virginia Watch Older foster kids are turning up in mental hospitals because the state has nowhere to put them. “I think [the state] failed him. And, they’ve failed me,” a mother said. 1/2/24 - West Virginia Watch State health department’s top attorney retires amid ties to deleted foster care email scandal. The department is facing sanctions over missing emails from former officials in an ongoing lawsuit about the treatment of foster kids. 12/22/23 - West Virginia Watch WVU paid more than $230K for Coben to fly on private jet to Charleston for governor-appointed job. 12/19/23 - The Parkersburg New and Sentinel Hearing set for sanctions motion in West Virginia foster care lawsuit. 12/18/23 - WV Metro News Magistrate judge orders a hearing over purged emails in foster care lawsuit. The federal magistrate judge plans to hear more about a request for sanctions over conditions in the foster care system. 12/14/23 - West Virginia Watch Former DHHR attorney backs up claim department ‘intentionally’ deleted emails in foster care suit. Attorneys who brought the lawsuit on behalf of foster children say the deletion of evidence ‘was not merely reckless but was intentional.’ 12/14/23 - Mountain State Spotlight Officials say sweeping changes are needed to prevent institutionalization of West Virginians with disabilities. Lawmakers will strongly consider increasing pay for workers who help West Virginians with intellectual disabilities live more independently, but a legislative study recommends a broader range of reforms also be implemented. 12/12/23 - West Virginia Watch Weeks away from DHHR split deadline, lawmakers worry not enough is changing . State lawmakers pushed to split the behemoth DHHR, but the implementation appears to some as more ‘bloated bureaucracy’ 12/10/23 - Mountain State Spotlight As officials delay, more West Virginians with disabilities are being confined to mental hospitals. For at least two years, disability rights advocates have warned that the state was indefinitely institutionalizing people in state-owned psychiatric hospitals. Despite outcry, lawmakers have been slow to act. 11/17/23 - West Virginia Watch DHHR leaders say they’ll change staff vetting after multiple contract employees arrested. Multiple employees at a state-run psychiatric hospital have been recently arrested for crimes, including murders that occurred off-site. 11/15/23 - West Virginia Watch Multiple employees at a state-run hospital have been charged with crimes this year. The charges, which include murders, have raised concerns about the employee screening process at Sharpe Hospital in Weston. 11/1/23 - West Virginia Watch Mother seeks answers as son with autism trapped and injured in troubled state psychiatric hospital. Sharpe hospital was never meant to house patients long term. JP, a 33-year-old mostly nonverbal man, has been there for more than a year as the state doesn’t have enough community placement. 10/10/23 - West Virginia Watch Women at Sharpe complained about employee before he was charged with patient sex crimes. It’s the latest problem to surface at the troubled state-run psychiatric facility, which for years has faced scrutiny for its patient treatment and staffing issues. 9/11/23 - West Virginia Watch Patients continue to linger in state psychiatric hospital without treatment plans, inspection shows. Lawmakers have heard for years about problems at William R. Sharpe, Jr. Hospital, a psychiatric facility under state operation. They recently toured the hospital, but Disability Rights West Virginia said it’s hardly a response to the crisis. 5/7/23 - WV News West Virginia DHHR working on plans to keep disabled out of state hospitals 3/8/23 - The Parkersburg New and Sentinel Bill to study IDD in criminal justice system passes West Virginia Senate 3/6/23 - The Register Herald People with disabilities in Beckley forced to use the bathroom in buckets and outside, inspections show 2/13/23 - The State Journal Advocates: Home care service shortages and issues place West Virginians at risk 2/13/23 - 100 Days in Appalachia (Erin Beck) For This W.Va. family, legislative attention on ‘warehousing’ people with intellectual disabilities at state hospitals is too late 2/7/23 - The Parkersburg News and Sentinel Bill to study IDD in criminal justice system passed West Virginia Senate 1/20/23 - The Register Herald Whistleblowers protection bill follows alleged mistreatment of disabled people in state care 12/28/22 - The Parkersburg New and Sentinel W.Va. Public Broadcasting reporter released after DHHR pressure 12/19/22 - From Common Dreams.org West Virginia journalist fired in alleged retaliation over reporting on abuse in state facilities 12/19/22 - The Parkersburg New and Sentinel Cold Shoulder: Disability rights group details strained relationship with West Virginia DHHR’s Crouch 12/17/22 - The Weirton Daily Times DHHR’s Crouch puts pressure on disability rights group 12/8/22 - WV Press Association WV Legislative Interims: Committee on Health hears testimony on the federal investigation into the WVDHHR 12/6/22 - WV Metro News As feds investigate state-run facilities, advocate tells lawmakers of ‘vicious cycle of institutionalization’ 12/6/22 - Articles/news about Mike Folio (DRWV Legal Director): https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/attorney-dhhr-breaking-promises-to-west-virginians-with-disabilities/article_357e35e4-75af-11ed-add5-57237fcedaba.amp.html https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/06/former-wva-dhhr-attorney-blasts-agency/?outputType=amp https://www.wvpublic.org/government/2022-12-06/advocate-brings-transparency-concerns-about-treatment-of-people-with-disabilities-to-lawmakers 12/5/22 - WV Public Broadcasting New federal investigation targets DHHR’s treatment of people with disabilities 12/2/22 - WV News WVDHHR under federal civil rights investigation 11/13/22 Joint Committee DRWV Legal Director, Mike Folio, mentioned 11/11/22 - WV Metro News Disability Rights organization asks lawmakers to scrutinize review of DHHR 11/3/22 - WV Public Broadcasting Mike Folio (DRWV Legal Director) Interview

EDUCATION - BULLYING/HARASSMENT Bullying Resources for Educators and Parents Once bullying starts, it is hard to get it to stop. The role of an educator and a parent is to teach empathy, teach and train staff and improve how bullying is handled by adults . A comprehensive list of resources is provided for educators and parents to help put a stop to bullying in schools and communities. Cyberbullying Research Center The Cyberbullying Research Center is dedicated to providing up-to-date information about the nature, extent, causes, and consequences of cyberbullying among adolescents. Effective Evidence-based Practices for Preventing and Addressing Bullying The enclosure to go with the U.S. Department of Education Dear Colleague Letter on Bullying, August, 20, 2013. PACER Center's 'Kids Against Bullying' PACER's site for kids to get information and guidance about bullying. PACER Center's Bullying Prevention Publications Page PACER Center's Bullying Prevention Project unites, engages, and educates communities nationwide to prevent bullying through creative, relevant, and interactive resources. This page provides publications and other resources for bullying prevention. PACER Center's National Center for Bullying Prevention PACER Center's Bullying Prevention Project is for all children, including children with disabilities, and promotes bullying awareness and teaches effective ways to respond to bullying. StopBullying.gov The Federal Partners in Bullying Prevention Steering Committee has partnered with the Interagency Working Group on Youth Programs to share information the federal government has prepared to help prevent and address bullying in communities. U.S. Department of Education Dear Colleague Letter on Bullying, October 21, 2014 Guidance from the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights to schools about addressing bullying. U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights bullying fact sheet A fact sheet for parents detailing what public schools are required to do when students with disabilities are bullied. Understanding Bullying and Cyberbullying A bullying resource from Online Schools "created to bring awareness to issues surrounding bullying and cyberbullying, and to help students, parents, and teachers prevent instances of bullying in the future". West Virginia Safe Schools Helpline A 24-hour, toll-free number has been assigned for all of West Virginia -- the same number for ALL schools. It can be reached from instate and from outside the state. When you call this number, you will be talking to an actual person -- not a recording.

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