Spring is an Exciting Time at APD

By Director Barbara Palmer

March was a busy month for all of us at the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD). Governor Ron DeSantis gave his first State of the State on March 5 to begin the 2019 Legislative Session. Since then, we have been visiting with legislators sharing the Governor’s recommendations and the needs of the individuals we serve.

On March 12, the Governor and Cabinet passed a resolution declaring March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (See story). What a great opportunity to have one of our customers, Titus Williams, share his hopes and dreams with our elected officials.

On March 20, we celebrated Developmental Disabilities Day at the Florida Capitol. Hundreds of self-advocates, stakeholders, providers, and others spent the day talking with legislators about the needs of Floridians with disabilities. One great self-advocate is Rachel Caylor Long of Pensacola who was recognized with an award for advocacy (See story). Rachel was able to have a special picture with First Lady Casey DeSantis, which was a nice treat.

We were also able to join Special Olympics this month in their announcement about hosting the national games in Orlando in 2022 (See story). This event will generate $61 million in economic impact for the Florida economy. It will surely be a very exciting time for the thousands participating in the games!

As we move into April, there are a lot of great things happening involving the agency, as you will be able to read about in this newsletter. Thank you for all that you do to move the mission of APD forward.



From left to right: Legislative Affairs Director Jeff Ivey, APD Director Barbara Palmer, Florida Developmental Disabilities Council’s Idelio Valdes Leadership and Advocacy Award-winner Rachel Caylor Long, First Lady Casey DeSantis, and Communications Director Melanie Mowry Etters


Special Olympics Florida President & CEO Sherry Wheelock and APD Director Barbara Palmer


APD General Counsel Richard Tritschler, Communications Director Melanie Mowry Etters, Director Barbara Palmer, Legislative Affairs Director Jeff Ivey, and Legislative Analyst Nicholas Bique attended the State of the State Address on March 5.