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Mr. Paul Aronsohn is New Jersey’s first Ombudsman on intellectual and developmental disabilities. Do any of you know what an Ombudsman is? I thought he was just another bureaucratic pencil pusher. His job is to help people and families navigate the complex disability system. I have been fortunate to work alongside the ombudsman for the last few years in my Journeys as an advocate. I admire his position constantly juggling his appointed positions by the governor’s Administration and fighting for the rights of individuals and families at the same time.
“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” Hebrews 13:2 NIV
On a personal note, this position would be my dream job. There was recently some good news from his office that I needed to share with us possible. it gave me a good kind of envy I was not asked by any organization to publish this.
“Signed into law by Governor Chris Christie in January 2018, the Office was made operational when Governor Phil Murphy appointed the first Ombudsman a few months later.The legislation creating the Office outlines specific responsibilities, which can be grouped into 3 categories:
Assisting individuals and families to navigate New Jersey’s system of care to get the services and supports they need and deserve;
Working with individuals and families to identify opportunities for improving the system; and
Helping to ensure that the voice of individuals and families is heard in a meaningful way in decisions that directly affect them as well as in larger policy discussions.”
The Garden State does not have the best reputation on the national stage. sadly we are known more for Jersey Shore and trash TV. on the subject of disability, I believe this state has not led any significant category on a spreadsheet. Thanks to Mr.Aronsohn that has changed, We made it to the White House. The Ombudsman The President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities. (PCPID)
“In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson established The President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities (PCPID), formerly The President’s Committee on Mental Retardation, to ensure the right of a “decent, dignified place in society” for people with intellectual disabilities. Since that time, PCPID has served as a federal advisor to the President and the Secretary of Health and Human Services on matters relating to persons with intellectual disabilities. PCPID promotes policies and initiatives that support independence and lifelong community inclusion. ACL provides oversight and support for PCPID.”
I truly feel that his recommendations will be common-sense solutions to problems we have had for too long. I strongly suspect that New Jersey can make a good conclusion Thank you Mr.Aronsohn for your service. Have a wonderful day everyone. As always all comments are welcome and feel free to contact me at any time.
Source Material:
https://www.disabilityombudsman.nj.gov/
https://acl.gov/programs/empowering-advocacy/presidents-committee-people
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