Free Event for Families Affected by Disability in Brevard Set Aug. 2 at Melbourne Auditorium

one in four Americans are affected by disability

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA — A free event for families affected by disability in Brevard County will be held on August 2 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Melbourne Auditorium, 625 E. Hibiscus Avenue, Melbourne.

The event aims to provide connections, education, and empowerment for Floridians of all ages and abilities.

This collaborative conference, with multiple informational booths and panels, is designed to bridge gaps, foster community, and provide critical resources.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in four Americans is affected by disability, a population that continues to grow. This event aims to raise awareness, foster inclusion, and promote legislative action to support this community.

Participants will have the opportunity to meet with over 50 community partner vendors, attend multiple panels and breakout sessions, including a Legislative Panel, a Mental Health Panel, and a Crisis Panel, utilize a respite area, and network with disability advocates, nonprofits, and service providers.

There will also be a proclamation issued from the Mayors of Melbourne and Palm Bay to celebrate the anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Advocates include:

● Nicole Grabner, One Voice Coalition
● Jackie Yearby, Angels Bridging Gaps
● Joseph Warner, Brevard Autism Coalition
● Melissa Parker, The Parker Foundation
● JJ Holmes, Self Advocate

Panelists include:

● Scott Darius, Florida Voices for Health
● Monique Miller, District 33 Representative, Florida House
● Anna Eskamani, District 42 Representative, Florida House
● Melissa Mazaeda, VP of J&M Support Coordination Services

With almost 3 million people in Florida living with a disability (according to a recent survey conducted by The Able Trust), this day provides an important platform to shine a spotlight on the growing need for inclusive policies and services, not just in Brevard County, but across the state and country.

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