Bobby Dodd Institute

Deafblindness affects both vision and hearing, and every person’s experience is unique.

For families and caregivers, support often starts with patience, understanding, and learning how your loved one communicates best. Trained professionals called interveners can help people with deafblindness access information, communication, school, work, and community life.

This Deafblind Awareness Week, let's remember that inclusion starts with understanding each person's unique needs.

Read the full blog at https://bobbydodd.org/painting-the-world-for-people-living-with-deafblindness-the-crucial-role-of-interveners/ and share this post to help raise awareness and support meaningful connection.

Happy National Selfie Day! We are sharing some of our favorite selfies, and we want to see your favorite selfie too! Whether you're with family, friends, coworkers, or showing off something that makes you smile, share your selfie in the comments below!

Happy Father’s Day to the dads, grandfathers, caregivers, and father figures who show up with love, support, and encouragement every day!

On June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas learned they were free. Today, we honor Juneteenth as a celebration of freedom, progress, purpose, and resilience.

At Bobby Dodd Institute, we believe every person deserves dignity, opportunity, and a sense of belonging. As we reflect on this important day, we continue to commit ourselves to building more inclusive communities where everyone has the chance to thrive.

Happy Juneteenth!

A Representative Payee manages Social Security benefits like SSI or SSDI. A Trust Representative, also called a Trustee, manages money in a Special Needs Trust.

Understanding the difference can help families protect important benefits, avoid mixing funds, keep better records, plan for future needs, and support quality of life.

You do not have to figure it all out at once. Learning the basics is a strong first step.

Read the blog post on our website at https://bobbydodd.org/whats-the-difference-between-representative-payee-and-trust-representative/ to learn more.

ID: The image is an informational graphic contrasting two roles: "Representative Payee" and "Trust Representative." At the top, it features a title in bold, dark blue font. Below the title, in a magenta color, is the subtitle stating "What Families Need to Know." The body of the text explains that families often hear about the two roles, highlighting that they sound similar but are distinct. The background is predominantly white. In the lower left corner, there is a circular graphic in a teal blue color. A larger dark gray circle is positioned in the bottom right corner. Additionally, the BDI logo is in the lower left corner.

Kamala, 2026 BDI Ambassador Program Graduate

“As a self-advocate and Disability Ambassador, I feel it is important to use my voice to help create positive change. The more people understand disability, the more likely they are to support inclusion, accessibility, equal opportunities, and respect for all individuals.”

Join 60+ Ambassadors who are discovering their strengths and making a difference in their communities. What could be possible for you? Apply at https://bobbydodd.org/bdi-ambassador-program/

To help us empower to more people like Kamala, consider making a one-time donation or becoming a monthly donor at https://bobbydodd.org/ways-to-give/ -now

ID: A white background with gray text on it that reads, "As a self-advocate and Disability Ambassador, I feel it is important to use my voice to help create positive change. The more people understand disability, the more likely they are to support inclusion, accessibility, equal opportunities, and respect for all individuals.” Below that, magenta text reads, "Kamala, 2026 BDI Ambassador Program Graduate." There is a thin teal line at the left side of the image. The BDI logo is in the top right corner.

OCD is often misunderstood.

It is not simply liking things clean or organized. OCD involves unwanted intrusive thoughts and repeated behaviors or mental rituals that a person feels driven to do to reduce fear or anxiety.

Support can start with listening, learning, and encouraging professional care when needed. OCD is treatable, and people living with OCD deserve compassion, respect, and accurate information.

Read the full blog post at https://bobbydodd.org/you-cant-be-a-little-ocd/ to learn more about OCD symptoms, lived experiences, and treatment options.

Alzheimer’s Disease affects more than 7 million people in the United States, which is 1 in 9 adults age 65 and older.

For many families, Alzheimer’s Disease changes daily routines and shifts the way loved ones support one another. Learning the signs and understanding the condition can help families prepare, find resources, and navigate the journey together.

To learn more about Alzheimer's Disease and other disabilities, visit our A-Z of Disabilities page at https://bobbydodd.org/types-of-disabilities/

ID: The image features a layout with a light blue-gray background adorned with several colored circles: a pink circle on the left, a gray circle on the right, and a teal circle on the bottom right. At the top center, inside a dark blue semicircle, bold white text reads "DID YOU KNOW?" Below, in smaller font, the text states: "Nearly 7 million people in the U.S. are living with Alzheimer’s, with almost 1 in 9 over 65 affected." Numerals and key phrases are highlighted in pink to emphasize their importance. In the upper right corner, there is the BDI logo.

After being diagnosed with a brain tumor at age 3, Natalie has built a life filled with independence, community involvement, and meaningful connections. BDI's services, including help planning for her future and job and career services, have been very helpful and meaningful to her and her family.

Watch Natalie's story at https://youtu.be/Qvcok_J6LqA?si=UL6NaCgICE4di9EZ

To help BDI serve more people like Natalie, consider making a one-time donation or becoming a monthly donor at https://bobbydodd.org/ways-to-give/ -now

ID: The image shows two people posing in front of a light-colored wooden shelf filled with various decorative items. The person on the left, Natalie, stands with a smile, wearing a brightly patterned sleeveless shirt in shades of blue, orange, and white. She has short, spiky hair and round glasses. The person on the right, Natalie's dad, Richard, is seated, also smiling, and wears a plaid shirt with pastel colors of blue, orange, and yellow. Behind them, the shelf displays several items, including dolls, colorful mugs, a framed photograph, and other assorted items.