Our own DeAnna Julian, Frazer’s new CEO, is a board member and president-elect of SPADD—Service Providers Association for Developmental Disabilities. SPADD is a member organization for community-based providers that support people with disabilities—like the Frazer Center.

According to the SPADD website, their “mission is to improve services to persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Georgia” by focusing “on educating the provider community on best practices in the field, advocacy, and education regarding public policy.” [spadd.org]

DeAnna recently attended the annual SPADD board retreat. One goal of the retreat was to hone the advocacy plan for Georgia’s 2025 legislative session. Once strategic planning is finalized, the plan will be publicized. We hope that Frazer's adult participants and their loved ones will let their voices be heard at the state capitol next year.

The SPADD board is also preparing to launch a pilot program that will be able to connect Georgia’s frontline professionals in the disabilities field with resources and a support network. More information will be available once the program is up and running.

We’re grateful that DeAnna is so passionate about making positive changes in the lives of people with disabilities and the people who love them and work with them.