Ability Radio

Mixed-media artist Rebecca Robinson shares how a Creative Renewal residency at CMC Arts in St. Croix helped her heal after her father’s passing and reignited her creativity, inspired in part by learning to scuba dive and her love of the ocean.Rebecca describes teaching children storytelling through eco-conscious sculpture projects, guiding teens in entrepreneurship and branding, and reflecting on art’s power for personal transformation, community connection, and environmental stewardship.

Amelia Headly-LaMont interviews James Harrington - lawyer, activist, adjunct professor, and author - bout his decades of community organizing, landmark litigation, and building the Texas Civil Rights Project. Harrington discusses organizing farm workers in Texas and Michigan, winning workers' compensation and unemployment coverage, advancing ADA access, and the enduring power of house meetings over social media for sustained social change. The episode also highlights Harrington’s recent volunteer work helping immigrant families with powers of attorney and notes his book, The Texas Civil Rights Project: How We Built a Social Justice Movement. 

Host Kishma B. Francis interviews Diana Autin, Senior Program Director at SPAN Parent Advocacy Network, about the vital role parents play as advocates for children and youth with disabilities. They discuss practical advocacy skills, the importance of support groups, and top resources like ParentCenterHub.org, disability-specific organizations, and local services through the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. The episode also covers training, peer support, preparing youth for self-advocacy, and how parents can access help via the DRCVI website (www.drcvi.org), phone (340-776-4303), and the DRCVI YouTube channel.

Host Kishma B. Francis interviews Tarik McMillan of Greater Changes about their Bright Path Wellness Center, community programs, and plans to expand mental health and wellness services across the Virgin Islands. The episode highlights fitness and wellness classes, family events, the new DARRI Book Club literacy initiative, efforts to reduce stigma around mental health, and how residents can access free consultations and services. Listeners are invited to connect with Greater Changes at greaterchangesllc.com or 833-409-3474 and with the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands at drcvi.org or 340-776-4303 for partnerships and resources.

Coach Kie Ransom Mahler shares her lifelong journey as a swimmer and instructor, the importance of Black representation in aquatic education, and how swimming can boost brain development and confidence. She explains practical water-safety tips, the silent nature of drowning, local lifeguard resources, and community challenges like water quality and marine protection. Learn about adaptive classes for children with sensory needs, how to contact Kai ([email protected] or Kie Kai Aquatics on Facebook), and where lessons are offered on St. Croix.