CRYSTAL ANDERSON

Dedicated and passionate disability advocate with a deep commitment to improving services and support for individuals with disabilities. As a parent of a child with cerebral palsy who is also part of the deaf community, I possess a unique understanding of the challenges faced by families navigating complex health and educational systems. Experience includes collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams to enhance access to resources and develop inclusive programs that empower individuals with diverse needs.

Skilled in fostering partnerships between families, educators, and service providers, I advocate for systemic change that promotes equity and inclusion. With a strong background in community engagement, I leverage personal insights and lived experiences to inform policies and practices that enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. I am committed to raising awareness, driving innovation, and cultivating supportive environments that celebrate diversity and promote the rights of all individuals within the disability community.

• Family Engagement in Research (FER), United Cerebral Palsy Network
  September 2024 – current
  Engaged in a pioneering initiative designed to integrate Family Partners with researchers and clinicians in the field of Cerebral Palsy. My role involves collaborating on the development and administration of a "readiness survey" to assess the preparedness of both families and researchers for effective partnerships in research activities.

• Partners in Policymaking
  Graduate, 2024; Class 41
  Completed a comprehensive, competency-based leadership training program developed by the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities. This program equips adults with disabilities and parents of children with developmental disabilities with the knowledge and skills necessary to advocate for systemic change and enhance community involvement.

• American Society for Deaf Children (ASDC)
  Membership in the ASDC has provided valuable insights into Deaf culture and American Sign Language (ASL). Through active participation, I have gained access to resources and collaborative networks aimed at empowering diverse families with deaf and hard-of-hearing children, while promoting advocacy and mentorship in language-rich environments.