By Laura K. Womble

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. ~Eleanor Roosevelt

I love new beginnings. They signify new opportunities to succeed. They give us the chance to create connections with people of varying backgrounds who share a common purpose. They open our eyes to the possibility of what we formerly thought impossible.

As the new editor of NCHPAD’s monthly newsletter, I would like to welcome you to a few new beginnings in our world. In his Director’s Column, Dr. Jim Rimmer shares NCHPAD’s move down South, our partnership with Lakeshore and the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) as well as why the letter “H” is now appearing in the NCHPAD name.

Lakeshore President Jeff Underwood, who has been a leading voice in the disability world for over two decades, shares Lakeshore’s long history of serving individuals with physical disabilities in this month’s Guest Column.

You won’t want to miss Bob Lujano’s Information Specialist Column in which he shares new NCHPAD “house-keeping” information, upcoming events, and introduces you to our other new information specialists Kelly Bonner, Luke Hanson and Allison Hoit. Allison will be responsible for The Training Corner each month. In this issue, she gives a physiological approach to wheelchair basketball training from two-time Paralympian Mary Allison Milford’s perspective.

Last, but by no means not least, be sure to read NCHPAD’s Associate Director Amy Rauworth thinking piece for this month’s F.I.T.T. Column on how we value sport.

Look for more exciting changes and new writers in the months to come as we strive to meet your needs and desires through this newsletter. We love to hear from our readers. If there is any topic or issue you would like to see featured in one of our upcoming newsletters, don’t hesitate to contact us via NCHPAD’s Facebook page or Twitter feed or send an email my way at lauraw@lakeshore.org.

I’ll close with thoughts on the lady whose words opened this column. In her 12-year tenure at the White House as first lady, Eleanor Roosevelt was considered one of the most active first ladies in history and worked for political, racial and social justice. She epitomized the forward-thinking individual who would not be quieted until equality for both women and African Americans was established. I think we could learn a lesson or two from Mrs. Roosevelt. She fought for what she knew to be right even if it went against the status quo. She believed in equal rights for all people, no matter their social status, physical ability or mental capability. And, she wasn’t afraid of adapting in order to be successful. At NCHPAD, we’ll continue to provide you with up-to-date information on disability awareness, opportunities, sport and legislation. With our new home and fresh look, I believe we may confidently say that the future for individuals with disabilities is a bright one indeed. Please join us on this great adventure!