July 2025 Newsletter

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Dear Friends and Supporters,

As we move into the heart of summer, I want to take a moment to share some exciting updates and heartfelt reflections from our organization.

Over the past few months, our Board of Directors has been hard at work developing and finalizing a comprehensive three-year strategic plan. This roadmap will guide us in growing our reach, strengthening our advocacy efforts, and (most importantly) expanding our capacity to serve more students with disabilities and their families. We are deeply committed to ensuring that every child has access to the support, resources, and community they need to thrive.

In order to meet the ambitious goals we’ve set, changes are coming. These changes are necessary and will help us build the infrastructure needed to increase our impact. But we can’t do this alone. We are actively seeking support from individuals and organizations who believe in our mission. Fundraising and donations are critical to sustaining and growing our programs, and we welcome any assistance you can provide—whether that’s a one-time gift, a recurring donation, or connecting us with potential sponsors.

We are also looking to fill an important leadership role on our Board of Directors. We currently have a vacancy for the position of Treasurer, and we hope to fill it by August. If you are a parent of a child with a disability, or an ally, with financial experience, we would love to hear from you. Your insight and skills could make a meaningful difference in the lives of so many.

As we honor Disability Pride Month, we also recognize that unstructured summer time can be uniquely challenging for many families. Please know we see you, we appreciate you, and we are here for you. Whether you’re looking for resources, community, or just someone who understands, we are just a message away.

Stay tuned to this newsletter and our social media for upcoming resources and opportunities to engage. Get involved! Join our book club, attend a support group, or volunteer with us. There’s a place for everyone in our community.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support and belief in our mission.

With gratitude and solidarity,

Amanda ScottCEO, President
ascott@egspeaks.org

CLICK HERE TO DONATE


Community Announcements

What is going on with ESY???That’s been a big question we’ve received over the past few weeks. Our advocacy team and Board of Directors have been in communication with District Leadership and have escalated the community’s concerns including:Classrooms being understaffed and out of ratio/compliance Transportation Services disrupted Poor communication about school site placements Amanda and other members of the EG SPEAKS team attended the June 24th Board Meeting to make public comment about these concerns.You can view the recorded meeting here(Approx. at 1:12:20)
We want to thank EGUSD Board Trustees Jennifer Ballerini and Susan Davis for being especially attentive to this issue, as they took the time to meet with our team to hear the student and family perspective and experience. Pictured: Trustee Ballerini, Trustee Davis, Jencie Ferraro, and Amanda Scott.
Upcoming Events:

Monday, July 1st: Red Robin Fundraiser – All purchases made with the mention of EG SPEAKS will contribute to our fundraiser! Please invite family, friends, and neighbors!8245 Laguna Blvd, Elk Grove, CA *All Day (Business operating hours)

Tuesday, August 4th: Ice Cream Social Fundraiser at Handel’s Ice Cream, Elk Grove!- 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. All purchases made with the mention of EG SPEAKS (also, be prepared to show this flyer) will contribute to our fundraiser! Please invite family, friends, and neighbors! 7701 Leaguna Blvd #400, Elk Grove, CA

 

EG SPEAKS Lending Library

Empowering Minds, Embracing Inclusion

The EG SPEAKS Lending Library is a carefully curated collection of books that highlights the rich diversity of the disability experience. Our mission is to foster understanding, inclusivity, and empathy by providing access to literature that reflects the lives, challenges, and triumphs of people with disabilities. Whether you’re seeking to broaden your knowledge or looking for stories that resonate with real-life experiences, our collection has something for everyone.

For Adults: Our adult non-fiction books focus on disabilities from various perspectives, covering topics such as history, personal narratives, advocacy, accessibility, and social justice. These works aim to deepen understanding, spark important conversations, and inspire positive change in communities. Whether you’re an ally, a caregiver, or someone with a disability, these books will help you engage with disability issues in meaningful ways.

For Children: Our children’s section features both fiction and non-fiction titles that introduce young readers to the lives of disabled characters and explore themes of inclusion, resilience, and friendship. These books not only reflect the lived experiences of children with disabilities but also encourage empathy and understanding in all readers, fostering a generation that celebrates differences and embraces diversity.

The EG SPEAKS Lending Library is a way for everyone to learn, grow, and connect through the power of stories. Join us in supporting a more inclusive world, one book at a time.

Join and Explore the EG SPEAKS Lending Library:

EG SPEAKS Library
EG SPEAKS Library Catalog
Donate a Book
Apply for a Library Card

EG SPEAKS Board of Directors is Seeking a Board Treasurer!

📣 We’re Seeking a Board Treasurer! 🧾💙Are you passionate about supporting disabled children and students? Do you have a background in finance or accounting? Join us in making a lasting impact!EG SPEAKS is looking for a dedicated Board Treasurer to help guide our mission of providing advocacy services to disabled youth and their families. As Treasurer, you’ll play a vital role in:✔️ Developing and overseeing budgets
✔️ Supporting tax filings and compliance
✔️ Implementing financial processes and best practices
✔️ Advising on financial strategy and sustainabilityThis is a fantastic opportunity to use your financial expertise to help protect the rights and futures of children with disabilities.💡 Nonprofit experience is a plus but not required. What matters most is your experience in finance and commitment to equity, advocacy, and community.📩 Interested or know someone who would be a great fit? DM us or email ascott@egspeaks.org to learn more!

Volunteer With Us!

We are currently seeking the following positions: Fundraising Coordinator Support Group Facilitators Kids Group and Activity Leaders
Join Here

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