ARISE - EFR

Tim Mahar
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The theme of the podcast is independent living and advocacy for people with disabilities. 

  1. 12/15/2025

    Advocacy in Action: Inside the Ombudsman Program at ARISE-EFR

    In this episode, ARISE-EFR CEO Bruce Drake is joined by Bill Rose, Program Manager of the Ombudsman Program, for an in-depth conversation about advocacy, dignity, and the rights of older adults living in long-term care settings. Bill shares his journey from professor of gerontology to nonprofit advocate and explains what ombudsmen do, how the program works across Central New York, and why this service is so critical for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities. From resolving everyday concerns to addressing serious care issues, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how ombudsmen advocate for residents’ voices to be heard. Listeners will also learn how families can access support, what to expect when calling the Ombudsman hotline, and how community members can get involved as volunteers. 📞 Ombudsman Hotline: 315-671-5108

    15 min

  2. 11/14/2025

    Guiding Families Through Special Education: A Conversation with Education Advocate Beth Clark

    In this episode of the ARISE – Exceptional Family Resources Podcast, CEO Bruce Drake speaks with Beth Clark, Lead Education Advocate at ARISE & EFR. Beth shares her journey from classroom teacher and parent of three children with disabilities to advocate, and explains how education advocacy helps families navigate the complex world of special education. They discuss common school challenges, how to communicate effectively with districts, why the right language in meetings and letters matters, and what “success” looks like when schools and families truly collaborate. Beth also highlights that ARISE–EFR’s education advocacy services are grant-funded and free to families, and explains how parents can reach out for support when a child is struggling or has a suspected disability. This episode is a must-listen for any caregiver feeling overwhelmed by IEPs, meetings, or school systems—and looking for a knowledgeable partner in their corner.

    19 min

  3. 11/14/2025

    Growing Up Together: Siblings, Support, and the Power of Inclusion

    In this heartwarming episode, CEO Bruce Drake sits down with 10-year-old Jace Downing, one of ARISE–EFR’s youngest participants, volunteers, and natural advocates. Joined by Jen Barkley, Community Inclusion Supervisor, this conversation shines a light on the experiences of siblings of children with disabilities and the supportive programs that help them thrive. Jace shares his love of farming, volunteering at ARISE at the Farm, helping fellow riders gain confidence, and participating in Sib Shops and Horsemanship Camp. Jen offers insights into Sib Shops, inclusive recreation programs, summer rec, and the unique ways ARISE–EFR supports siblings—giving them space to connect, learn, and simply be kids. Filled with laughter, honesty, and the genuine perspective only a sibling can offer, this episode highlights the strength, compassion, and resilience that grow within families—and the vital role of inclusive programs that support them.

    16 min

  4. 11/06/2025

    Igniting Possibility: How Employment Services Opens Doors for People with Disabilities

    In this powerful and inspiring episode, CEO Bruce Drake sits down with Lawton Williamson, Director of Employment Services at ARISE & Exceptional Family Resources, to explore the transformative work behind meaningful employment for people with developmental disabilities. Lawton shares his personal journey from manufacturing to human services, the moment that sparked his passion for mentoring, and the impact of more than three decades spent supporting individuals toward independence. Together, Bruce and Lawton break down what employment services really are, how discovery works, what pre-vocational programs look like in action, and the essential role of volunteer experiences and one-to-one support. With real success stories, candid insights, and Lawton’s trademark energy, this episode highlights how employment changes lives — and how ARISE-EFR is helping individuals find purpose, confidence, and opportunity every day.

    16 min

  5. 11/06/2025

    Inside Advocacy: How Change Happens from the Ground Up

    Join host Bruce Drake of ARISE – EFR as he sits down with statewide systems advocate Phil Phren to unpack how meaningful systems-change happens in the world of disability rights and independent living.  In this episode, we explore: What it really means to be a systems advocate and how that role differs from direct service.  Phil’s roots in community organizing, his own connection to disability via his sister, and how that experience shaped his work.  The function of independent living centers—what sets them apart and how they empower people with disabilities.  Real wins in advocacy: from improvements to accessible voting equipment to protections around source-of-income discrimination.  The balance between policy-wonk detail and person-centered organizing, and why trust and credibility matter in this work. Whether you’re a disability-rights advocate, policy-enthused citizen, or simply curious about how grassroots effort connects to institutional change, this episode offers a powerful look at how lasting impact is built—one relationship, one system, one community at a time. Tune in to discover how empowerment, organizing, and policy intersect to move the needle on justice and inclusion.

    15 min

  6. 11/06/2025

    Building Access: The Ramp Program that Keeps People Home

    Join host Bruce Drake of ARISE – EFR as he sits down with Scott Pecoy, Ramp Coordinator for their community mobility program. Discover how this incredible volunteer-driven initiative designs, builds and installs modular access ramps so individuals with mobility challenges can continue living independently in their homes. Learn about the building process, the partner churches and corporate volunteers, and the impact behind the 500-plus ramps built to date.

    15 min

  7. 09/25/2025

    Navigating Life with Lawrence

    In this episode of the ARISE-EFR podcast, host Bruce Drake talks with Sue Stalker, a Direct Support Professional (DSP) with 15 years of experience, about her longtime partnership with Lawrence. They discuss how Sue became Lawrence’s DSP, the trust and consistency that have held their relationship together, and her role in supporting his daily life—especially in helping him make healthier choices, participate in community activities, volunteer, and explore new possibilities like independent living. Sue also reflects on life planning, goal-setting, and the deep satisfaction and challenges in her work.

    15 min

  8. 09/25/2025

    Building Empowered Collaboration: ARISE-EFR & Community Partnerships

    In this episode, host Bruce Drake engages with Adaptive Design Coordinator, Connor McGough, to explore how ARISE-EFR forges meaningful collaborations with community organizations to enhance support for individuals with disabilities and their families. They discuss strategies for creating welcoming, accessible programs; the importance of mutual respect and shared goals; lessons learned from past partnerships; and how to sustain momentum over time. If you’re interested in how nonprofits, families, and service agencies can work together to create inclusive, thriving communities—this conversation offers valuable insight, practical tips, and inspiring examples.

    16 min
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About

The theme of the podcast is independent living and advocacy for people with disabilities. 

Information

  • Creator
    Tim Mahar
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    116
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 ARISE - EFR
  • Show Website
    ARISE - EFR