To celebrate our 40th anniversary, our staff have asked members and persons from the community to share their experience with INARF. If you would like to share your experience, please contact Harley Ehrman. 

A Strong Association Makes All the Difference 
By James Vento, CEO (Retired), Easter Seals Crossroads 

My introduction to INARF came about in 1980, shortly after my arrival in Indiana, by way of a visit from Costa Miller. After that meeting there was no question that Crossroads would participate in the Association. It was apparent from the beginning that this was a man and an organization that was passionate about the mission of ensuring quality services for children and adults with disabilities. It was my pleasure to become actively involved in INARF, and ultimately become president of the board. A special aspect of that experience was serving during the 25th anniversary of the Association. 

On Friday, August 22nd, INARF hosted the Eighth Annual Legislative Award Luncheon in Indianapolis honoring Senator Ron Grooms. The luncheon has been an annual tradition for several years and offers INARF the chance to recognize the individuals that support our legislative priorities in the General Assembly and most importantly, the individuals who support our INARF Political Action Committee (PAC) efforts. 

INARF and the Bureau of Quality Improvement Systems (BQIS) have been engaged in an ongoing dialogue around system issues and improvements over the past year. BQIS remains committed to their “bucket list” of priorities and working in partnership with providers to improve the systems that support individuals with disabilities. To this end, Ann Davis, BQIS Director, and Shelly Thomas, Assistant Director, regularly participate in an INARF-BQIS Collaboration Work Group. 

On Friday, August 22nd, INARF hosted the Eighth Annual Legislative Award Luncheon in Indianapolis honoring Senator Ron Grooms. The luncheon has been an annual tradition for several years and offers INARF the chance to recognize the individuals that support our legislative priorities in the General Assembly and most importantly, the individuals who support our INARF Political Action Committee (PAC) efforts.