The Georgetown University National Center for Cultural Competence created “Truth & Reconciliation Forums” for racial and ethnic groups most impacted by health disparities.
First, our leadership team reviewed the forums to make them relevant for young adults with IDD-MH and their families.
We picked the information that was important to include and thought of new information to add. We also created new materials and activities that accommodated the unique learning needs and interests of young adults with IDD-MH.
Second, our project Advisory Board and Co-Facilitator Teams reviewed the materials, provided feedback, and came up with new ideas for interactive learning and discussion activities.
Co-facilitator teams were made up of young adults with IDD-MH and certified START coordinators who worked as partners to run the forums. We had four co-facilitator teams from California, New York, North Carolina, and Washington.
Our partnership with persons with IDD-MH and professionals helped ensure that the forums were:
- Accessible
- Appropriate for young adults and family members with a range of disabilities, and educational and literacy levels
- A good fit for young adults and family members who may or may not be familiar with research
- Applicable to the everyday lives of people with IDD-MH
- Focused on individual strengths, abilities, and opportunities
Throughout this process, from August 2020 – August 2021, the local co-facilitator teams met once a month or more to review materials and practice running the forums.