Staff Report

Gov. Nikki Haley greeting self-advocates and their families.
https://www.newberryobserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_PART_1456948911718.jpgGov. Nikki Haley greeting self-advocates and their families. Courtesy photos

Leon Gallman, left, stops for a photo with Rep. Walt McLeod
https://www.newberryobserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_IMG_3448.jpgLeon Gallman, left, stops for a photo with Rep. Walt McLeod Courtesy photos

Dr. Beverly Buscemi, state director of the SCDDSN, with Advocate of the Year Connie Coleman.
https://www.newberryobserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_IMG_3449.jpgDr. Beverly Buscemi, state director of the SCDDSN, with Advocate of the Year Connie Coleman. Courtesy photos

Connie Coleman served as emcee at the D.A.D. rally while Leon Gallman and Brandon Woodward presented the flags.
https://www.newberryobserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_IMG_3416.jpgConnie Coleman served as emcee at the D.A.D. rally while Leon Gallman and Brandon Woodward presented the flags. Courtesy photos

NEWBERRY COUNTY — Hundreds of people gathered March 2 at the State House for the 27th Disability Advocacy Day.

Connie Coleman emceed the event which included speakers Dr. Beverly Buscemi, state director of SCDDSN, and Gov. Nikki Haley. Haley proclaimed March as South Carolina Disabilities Awareness Month and advocates stressed the importance of job opportunities, transportation and programs to help them live productive lives.

Buscemi stated that there is more than $13 million appropriated for service expansion for programs and to address waiting lists.

Coleman, president of IMPACT SC and an officer of Voices for PRIDE, received the State Self-Advocate of the Year Award from the S.C. Human Services Provider Association.

Rep. Walt McLeod also received recognition for serving as a life-long advocate for people with disabilities and for his support while serving in the House of Representatives since 1997.

The event was organized by the S.C. Partnership of Disability Organizations made up of organizations representing autism, brain injury, spinal cord injury, and intellectual and related disabilities.