GAPC EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM

Presented by Jody Armstrong, Disability Achievement Center

Centers for Independent Living (CILs) help people of all ages and any disability to live as safely and independently as possible. This session will explore the five core services offered by CILs: Information & Referral, Independent Living Skills Training, Peer Mentoring, Individual & Systemic Advocacy, and Transition Support.

Attendees will learn about what each of the five core services entail and gain a clear understanding of how, through these services, CILs:

• Serve as essential resources for people with disabilities.
• Create personalized plans to help each person achieve independence.
• Provide peer mentoring to build a supportive community and enhance quality of life.
• Amplify the voices of people with disabilities.
• Provide the tools and support for successful transitions to the least restrictive environment possible.

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WEDNESDAY - October 8, 2025

Virtual - Zoom | Noon to 1:00 p.m.

REGISTRATION

• Members - FREE (Included as a benefit of membership)

• Guests - non-members are invited to attend two complimentary programs before submitting an application for membership. Email information@guardianassociation.org for more information.

All education programs will apply for one hour CEU for Guardians

SPEAKER BIO

After a successful career with USAirways, Jody moved to Pinellas County to continue her education at Stetson College of Law, earning both the Juris Doctor (JD) and MBA concurrently in 2 ½ years. Just before graduation, she was appointed to a vacant seat on the Town of Redington Shores Board of Commissioners. She continued to serve another full term as Commissioner in the tiny beach town of 2600 residents before stepping into the Mayor’s seat for a term. While serving the Town, she coordinated the Town’s 50th Anniversary celebrations, championed beach access upgrades, and oversaw the undergrounding of utilities.

After a battle with cancer and Whipple surgery, Jody shifted gears and now serves as Director of Outreach at Disability Achievement Center. She is a strong advocate for all people with disabilities and was behind the beach access mat effort that enables anyone with a mobility impairment to visit our pristine beaches throughout Pinellas! Most of the people served at Disability Achievement Center are seniors and the programs and services provided help keep them safe and independent in their homes.

Jody chairs the Pinellas County Council for Persons with Disabilities, serves as Secretary for Better Living for Seniors and secretary of the Pinellas VOAD. She is a member of Pinellas CHAMP & Pasco ESF-8 Preparedness Coalitions, Pasco Aging Network, and a board member for SAGES Theater.