Thank you Lydia

I would like to thank Lydia Troha for presenting in our Continuing Education Series for Volunteers.

The Continuing Education Presentation by Lydia from the Board of Developmental Disabilities on Thursday night was wonderful. Lydia's presentation was well attended with Hotline Advocates, Face to Face Advocates, Interns, and CRCC Staff. Everyone felt that Lydia's presentation was filled with helpful information and that Lydia was very engaging.

Lydia discussed the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART), The Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities (CCBDD), a horrifying history of how individuals with Developmental Disabilities were treated (up until the 1940!!), Sexuality in individuals with Developmental Disabilities (Myths and Facts), why individuals with Developmental Disabilities are at such risk for being sexual assaulted, and Tips for working with individuals with Developmental Disabilities.

Some Tips:
Use simple language
Use short sentences
Give more time while waiting for a response to a question
Ask only one question at a time
Ask specific questions
Try to avoid asking questions that have yes or no answers
Make eye contact before you speak
Say his or her name often
Speak Directly to the person (I THINK THIS IS AN IMPORTANT ONE)
Using pictures can be helpful

So again Lydia, thank you for your presentation!


Next Continuing Education Event will be May 17th. Tracie Paine will be presenting on Neuroscience and PTSD.