Leahy Life Plan

12/15/2025

Wishing a happy and meaningful Hanukkah to all who celebrate.

As the Festival of Lights begins, we reflect on the values of resilience, hope, and community—principles that guide our work every day at Leahy Life Plan. May this season bring light, peace, and warmth to you and your loved ones.

Chag Sameach from our team to yours.

12/12/2025

This ad nails a profound behavioral truth: people with disabilities don’t want to be seen as “inspirational” simply for performing daily tasks. They just want their technology to work seamlessly and intuitively, allowing them to live a normal life.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSFYGdtjOJK/

12/11/2025

The U.S. Department of Education is bringing back hundreds of staffers to tackle a backlog of civil rights cases — including disability discrimination complaints — after trying for months to fire them.

12/10/2025

Back in December of 2024, a group of students with autism were denied service at a Cracker Barrel in Waldorf, Maryland.

Maryland’s attorney general announced a settlement has been reached Monday with Cracker Barrel over allegations of disability discrimination.

Maryland’s attorney general announced a settlement has been reached Monday with Cracker Barrel over allegations of disability discrimination. Back in December of 2024, a group of students with autism were denied service at a Cracker Barrel in Waldorf, Maryland. Each of those students will receive ...

12/10/2025

How do you feel about being a disabled American going into 2026?

It doesn’t have to be this way, Amy S. Hewitt writes.

12/09/2025

California students with disabilities face ‘terrifying’ special ed cuts after Trump changes

Trump cut funding for students with disabilities. He also gutted the Office of Civil Rights, which helps enforce disability law.

12/07/2025

This crisis is impacting the disability community as well as the aging community. Government funding cuts, a caregiver shortage and immigration limits are layering new strains on an industry already hard-pressed to meet demand.

The business of caring for older Americans is in a deepening crisis

12/05/2025

THE ULTIMATE BARRIER-BREAKER 💙 Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth is the first Thai American woman elected to Congress, the first woman with a disability elected to Congress, the first female double amputee in the Senate, AND the first senator to give birth while in office.

She had her children in her 50s. She’s the reason lawmakers are now allowed to bring their babies to work while breastfeeding.

In 2018, Duckworth helped change that rule, and the very next day, she became the first senator to cast a vote while holding a baby 🗳️

She’s a visionary. A veteran.
A mom. A change-maker.
A helper. And a hero.

We’re lucky to have LEADERS like her 💙

📸: Sen. Tammy Duckworth

12/05/2025

December is National Safe Toys and Gifts Month!
Safe toys and gifts month is observed in the month of December to promote the safety of toys and gifts for children, emphasizing the importance of selecting age- and ability- appropriate items during the holiday season!

Importance of Safe Toys & Gifts Month:
The primary goal of this observance is to prevent accidents and injuries caused by hazardous toys. Many toys can pose risks if they are not age-appropriate or do not meet safety standards. By promoting awareness, the initiative aims to educate consumers about the potential dangers associated with certain toys and encourage safer gift-giving practices.

How to Promote Safe Toys & Gifts
Here are some ways to participate in Safe Toys & Gifts Month and ensure safe gift-giving:
Check Labels: Always look for age-appropriate labels on toys and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Avoid Small Parts: Steer clear of toys with small parts that could pose choking hazards for young children.
Inspect for Hazards: Examine toys for sharp edges, loose parts, or any potential dangers that could harm children.
Read Reviews: Research toys and gifts online, read reviews, and ask for recommendations from other parents and caregivers.
Consider Child’s Age: Take into account a child’s age, interests, and abilities when selecting gifts.
Support Educational Toys: Choose toys that encourage learning, creativity, and development.

12/04/2025

When masking feels constant and unavoidable, it can create or exacerbate mental health problems.

“Masking” is part of life, especially for those with autism or A.D.H.D. But hiding your true self comes with a cost.

12/04/2025

Balancing work with disability benefits is a complex reality for many individuals and families. This article offers an honest look at the challenges people face when trying to build independence without risking the support they rely on. Sharing this because it’s important for our communities to understand how the system works and why clearer, more supportive pathways are needed for those who want to work while keeping essential benefits.

A McCandless man builds a life around inflatables while navigating disability benefits, work opportunities and employment rules.

12/03/2025

Today is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities - a global reminder of the importance of inclusion, accessibility, and respect for every individual.

Established by the United Nations in 1992, December 3rd would be used to raise awareness of disability issues in all aspects of life. This day honors the contributions, strengths, and diverse experiences of people with disabilities, while also recognizing the ongoing work needed to ensure equal opportunities in our communities.

As we reflect on this year’s theme, we are reminded that true inclusion means more than awareness - it requires action. From accessible services and equitable policies to community support and meaningful representation, each step brings us closer to a world where every person can thrive.

Let’s continue to listen, learn, and advocate for systems that empower people with disabilities and their families. Progress happens when we work together