MDRC cultivates disability pride and strengthens the disability movement by recognizing disability as a natural and beautiful part of human diversity while collaborating to dismantle all forms of oppression.
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New MDRC Executive Director
The Michigan Disabilities Rights Coalition (MDRC) Board of Directors, after a national search conducted over four months, announced the selection of internal candidate, Theresa Metzmaker, as the next Executive Director and CEO for the organization, effective June 1, 2020. Ms. Metzmaker will replace RoAnne Chaney, current Executive Director and CEO, who is retiring May 29, 2020.
“On behalf of the MDRC Board, I am happy to announce, after a national search and interviews, the unanimous support for Theresa to lead MDRC into its future,” said Myrtle Gregg-Lafay, President of the MDRC Board “Theresa has taken MDRC Leadership programs to a new, exciting level over the last several years and her leadership, strategic vision, and commitment to system change are ideally suited to lead the organization’s pioneering work to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities and all marginalized people.”
Ever since Theresa joined MDRC in 2006, her role has steadily grown to her current position as Assistant Director responsible for leadership program development, human resources management, and growing financial management. Through her leadership and oversight, MDRC has grown and become a state and national resource for leadership development. She has also led organization-wide efforts to streamline and strengthen MDRC efforts to address equity issues, said outgoing Executive Director, RoAnne Chaney.
Ms. Metzmaker said “I am deeply honored the board has chosen me to lead MDRC. “The staff are feistier,” she said, “fierce, and deeply committed to social equity, justice and dismantling oppression. It is humbling to be named the director of individuals I admire, learn from constantly and who challenge me to be better and serve better. I am excited to lead MDRC as we implement our work in ways that are accountable to ALL of the disability community, working to ensure our work is inclusive, celebrates pride and reduces violence. I will always hold our mission at the forefront of all we do.
Important millages and Bond votes this August 4
Ingham County has an important millage vote for Senior Services in this August 4 election. Many school districts are also doing bond issues to make schools safer for the long term impact of the pandemic.
MDRC Office Closed
The MDRC office in East Lansing is closed until further notice. Following the Executive Order issued on March 23, 2020 by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in an effort to manage the spread of the Coronavirus, (COVID 19), our offices will be closed until until further notice. This will be evaluated on a regular basis and dates will be updated as the situation changes. We will still be providing services to partners and community members via phone, email, teleconferences and social media while all staff work remotely. Please see our statement about Corona Virus and below. You may still reach us through phone, email and the contact us page on this site.
MDRC Statement on the Coronavirus
MDRC has a practice and policy of supporting the people we serve and our staff by asking people who are sick (including staff) not to attend events we are hosting or come to our office.
As people with disabilities ourselves, our community comprises many of the people most at risk of serious effects of the coronavirus. People with weaker immune systems, including those who are pregnant, may be more at risk of catching the virus and having more serious complications. In addition, due to intersectional discrimination, people with disabilities also face additional barriers accessing healthcare.
MDRC is actively tracking the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Michigan Community Health Emergency Coordination Center information on responding to the coronavirus and take their recommendations seriously. Currently, the CDC recommends considering cancelling large work-related meetings or events. MDRC will be following these recommendations in our work.
MDRC is also requiring staff to hold meetings by phone or videoconference. We will be requiring staff not to travel. We are taking these precautions in an effort to protect ourselves and our community and follow the guidelines of knowledgeable, expert, public health leaders.
Additional Information
The Affordable Care Act is Still the Law
The Affordable Care Act and the Health Michigan Plan (expanded Medicaid) have not been repealed! MDRC can still help you find affordable health care. Contact our Navigator, Kathleen at 517-333- 2477 x 313.
Connect With Us
Support MDRC!
Go to MDRC's Donation Site!
Support MDRC through the Mail:
Michigan Disability Rights Coalition
3498 East Lake Lansing Road, Suite 100
East Lansing, MI 48823
Order Get "Feisty and Non-compliant" Wear
Consider ordering a “Feisty and Non-compliant” t-shirt, travel mug, bag, button, or hoodie. Show your Feisty & Non-compliant Spirit with pride! All proceeds go towards our important work.