Check out this idea filled book by Jo Lynn Osborne, a longtime loving parent and active advocate for her son and others experiencing disabilities and special needs.

Try Another Way: A Story of Self Determination, is the story of Jo Lynn and her son, David’s, collaborative journey into adulthood through self determination.  Jo Lynn became her son’s fierce advocate for inclusion, equality and a full life within a society with slowly changing attitudes toward people with disabilities.  Jo Lynn went on to advocate for hundreds of others through her work with the Arc-Jeffco, Clear Creek and Gilpin Counties and David continues to craft his own life and grow his friendships and opportunities.

“Build community” blares loudly! The funding comes and goes and comes and goes so a network of real friends and supports is essential. Jo Lynn and David share the ups and downs of their experiences and offer many suggestions to encourage parents or others trying to support a person with special needs or disabilities.