iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 01/10/2026

From Normalization to Social Role Valorization. In the latest NLCDD Bulletin, IOD’s Guy Caruso explores how the disability field has evolved from the principle of Normalization to Social Role Valorization (SRV). Read Guy’s article on page 16 here: natleadership.org/wp-content/u...

A picture of a crowd on a parkway. A person using a powerchair frames the foreground of the image, while people dance and play music in front of him. City Hall, a tall tower, looms behind the scene.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

In this episode of Stories from C2P2, 2025 participant Liam Holland reflects on his first sessions, what he's learned so far, and what he hopes to take away from the rest of his C2P2 experience. 🎧 Hear Liam’s story and learn more about C2P2 here: disabilities.temple.edu/c2p2-podcast

Liam Holland, a white man using a powerchair with an AAC device, poses in front of a red wall that reads: "Perseverantia Vincit, Perseverance Conquers"

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

The Institute on Disabilities had a great time at Disability Pride Pittsburgh this past weekend, where we provided information about our programs and resources to community members on a beautiful day. Thanks to our Western PA Coordinator, Guy Caruso, who covered the event for the IOD!

A staff member in a red shirt poses with a pierogi wearing a hat that reads "Mrs. T's." They stand in front of a table with a cloth reading: Institute on Disabilities at Temple University.

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Reposted by Institute on Disabilities

AAPD - The American Association of People with Disabilities @aapd.com · 24/09/2026

There is still time to apply to join AAPD’s 2027 Summer Internship Program! Within the Summer Internship Program, AAPD hosts a Bobby Silverstein Fellow for folks interested in the legal field. Applications close October 1 at 5:00 PM ET. Apply: www.aapd.com/summer-internship-prog…

Announcement for AAPD 2027 Summer Internship Program with application deadline October 1, 2026, 5 PM ET and encouragement to apply.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

We've had to postpone today's Families First session, How to Have Hard Conversations. A new date will be announced!

Text that reads, Postponed. 10-12 pm, Thursday, September 24: How to Have Hard Conversations with Those Who Support You. A Families First session. Photo of a young worried parent on their mobile phone.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

Kinda chic to care about accessibility. From disability justice to accessible spaces, inclusive communities, and making sure everyone has a seat at the table, we think accessibility will always be in style.

A person uses a wheelchair, a American flag tied to the back that displays a person using a wheelchair with the traditional stars. Text at the bottom reads: "Kinda chic to make PA more accessible."

An IOD staff member poses with a switch-activated toy owl in front of a table reading "TechOWL." Text across the photo reads: "Kinda chic to visit TechOWL Community Space."

A student from the IOD's L&CS program raises his fingers at his graduation. He is wearing a graduation gown. Behind him, more students from the program do the same.

A semicircle of people face two people using powerchairs on marble floors. Pictures and faces of people with disabilities are displayed on panels in the room. Text reads: "Kinda chic to work in disability justice."

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

Temple Theaters is one of the first universities to introduce WatchWord Live from Built for Good, which use innovative smart glasses to provide customizable captions during live performances. Learn about the IOD's role in bringing this technology to Temple Theaters and others here: buff.ly/LcIH6mw

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

It’s Direct Support Professional Week! PA Governor Josh Shapiro proclaimed this week as Direct Support Professional (DSP) Week. We’re recognizing the essential work of DSPs who help people with disabilities live meaningful lives in their communities. Thank you, DSPs, for all that you do!

Rodney laughs with another shopper at Reading Terminal Market

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

IOD staff members Monique Chabot and Alanna Raffel presented on the TechOWL Community Space at the Opening Doors Together 2026 Conference’s Enabled Home Showcase. The Community Space was honored with the People’s Choice Award, voted on by the audience! We’re so proud!

Monique Chabot and Alanna Raffel sit behind a table with 3-D printed assistive technology spread out in front of them.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

The Developmental Disabilities (DD) Network connects organizations working to advance inclusion, advocacy, and opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University is proud to be part of Pennsylvania’s DD Network.

A community member talks with three IOD staff members at the TechOWL Community Space.

A photographer takes a photograph from her powerchair.

A man plays adapted video games at the TechOWL Community Space.

A community member uses adaptive technology with an IOD staff member.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

We’ll be at Disability Pride Pittsburgh! Stop by the IOD/TechOWL table to say hi and learn more about what we do! 📅 Sept. 26th | 12:00-4:00 PM 📍 Schenley Plaza, Pittsburgh, PA 🎟️ FREE + open to all 🤟 ASL provided @DisabilityPridePA #DisabilityPridePittsburgh #TechOWL

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 26/08/2026

The Institute on Disabilities and TechOWL were excited to table outside the College of Education and Human Development’s New Student Convocation on Friday! We loved connecting with students and sharing information about our programs and resources. Here’s to a great semester ahead! 🦉

Students and staff connect at an IOD/TechOWL tabling event in a Temple University hallway.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

There are a lot of reasons why Health Equity matters to us. 💚 It's what drives the work we do, the conversations we have, and the communities we're committed to supporting. We are proud to team up with @blackgirlswithgreenthumbs to share what Health Equity means to us and why it matters. 🌱

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 10/08/2026

Our Associate Director of Policy, Jamie Ray-Leonetti, tabled at the Bridging Knowledge to Know-How Conference last week. The conference brought together PA disability educators, community partners, families, and youth, and was a great place to present our resources and programs. Great work, Jamie!

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Reposted by Institute on Disabilities

Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 08/07/2026

Governor Josh Shapiro announced his 28 appointments to the newly established Governor’s Advisory Commission on People with Disabilities. www.pa.gov/governor/new... #Disabilities #Pennsylvania

pa.gov

Gov Shapiro Makes Appointments to New Commission on People with Disabilities

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Reposted by Institute on Disabilities

Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 03/07/2026

We are proud to work alongside our partners and in strong coalitions. Together, we advocate for every person’s right to live independently, make their own choices, have control over their own lives and fully participate in community life.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 07/07/2026

Queer Disability Pride Social: Thanks! Thank you to everyone who came out to our annual Queer Disability Pride Social last Wednesday. We celebrated, learned, and uplifted queer disability communities and assistive technology. Our community partner: the WELL.YES Philadelphia Taskforce.

Several happy folks at the event pose together for a photo while flashing peace and victory signs with their hands

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 02/07/2026

How are you celebrating Disability Pride Month?

Disability Pride flag stripes in muted red, yellow, white, blue and green lead to the words Disability Pride month over a photo of people marching together with colorful pride flags in Philadelphia.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 01/07/2026

The Institute on Disabilities and partners urge Pennsylvania to reaffirm commitments to community living. disabilities.temple.edu/about-us/news

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 19/06/2026

REMINDER ✨ Join us for a Queer Disability Pride Social, for youth and adults who care about disability and LGBTQ+ pride! RSVP: disabilities.temple.edu/programs-ser... 🌈 June 24, 4–7 pm at the TechOWL Community Space in Philadelphia 🌈 Free. Welcoming. Snacks. Raffle. Near public transit.

Group of fun disabled people in a row on a lavender background. Text, some in rainbow colors, that reads, Towards Full Access: A Queer Disability Pride Social. Wednesday June 24. Logos for the Institute on Disabilities and WELL YES. Questions? Email iodhsp@temple.edu.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 04/06/2026

Sign up for Guiding Generations, the final Families First event before summer, with refreshments and snacks for those who join us in person! disabilities.temple.edu/families-first Thursday, June 11 at 10 am at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA or online.

Grandparents laugh with their two young grandchildren. Text that reads, How can all generations in a family unit play a key role in early intervention and education?

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 03/06/2026

Join us for a Queer Disability Pride Social, for youth and adults who care about disability and LGBTQ+ pride! RSVP: disabilities.temple.edu/programs-ser... 🌈 June 24, 4–7 pm at the TechOWL Community Space in Philadelphia 🌈 Free. Welcoming. Snacks. Raffle. Near public transit.

Group of fun disabled people in a row on a mint green background. Text, some in rainbow colors, that reads, Towards Full Access: A Queer Disability Pride Social. Wednesday June 24. Logos for the Institute on Disabilities and WELL YES. Questions? Email iodhsp@temple.edu.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 22/05/2026

Including Samuel Virtual Documentary Screening Tuesday June 2, 2026 at 12 pm ET Join a free virtual film screening and discussion of Including Samuel, a film by Dan Habib. Learn, connect, and participate in meaningful conversation. RSVP to attend. disabilities.temple.edu/families-first

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 19/05/2026

Artist, writer, par-educator, C2P2 participant. Michelle Steiner's story is a powerful reminder that ability is never defined by labels or early expectations. She shares her journey growing up with a learning disability in our podcast Stories from C2P2. Listen now: disabilities.temple.edu/c2p2

Person with red, black, white, and silver painted fingernails holds a square pin with red text that reads, C2P2.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 12/05/2026

Join our Wednesday free Lunch and Learn webinars on Augmentative and Alternative Communication this month! 📅 May 13, 12 pm EDT - The Right to (NOT) Remain Silent: AAC in the Court and Legal System. ✔️ Sign up at disabilities.temple.edu/aac-webinar-...

Photo: Person taps on screen displaying their AAC app. Graphic: Webinars on Augmentative and Alternative Communication. May 13, 12 pm EDT - The Right to (NOT) Remain Silent: AAC in the Court and Legal System. May is National Speech-Language-Hearing Month.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 10/05/2026

REMINDER: MAY 11 Workshop Talking About Sexuality: a free virtual workshop on Zoom for parents, guardians, caregivers, and family members. 5/11 - 6 pm to 8 pm ET Register at buff.ly/jfm0DP6

A parent and their child, a young disabled adult, sit at home and chat together.

May 11, 2026.

- What is Sexual Health?
- Barriers to Communicating
- Human Sexual Development
- Tips for Talking

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 08/05/2026

Free virtual talk on sex, disability, and assistive technology for all who care about accessibility and sexuality May 21, 12 - 1:30 pm Topics - Sex & Disability Foundations + Intro to Assistive Devices for Pleasure & Sexual Health temple.zoom.us/meeting/regi... Questions? iodhsp@temple.edu

Two cheerful adults sit close together while sharing coffee on a sofa. A mobility scooter is parked nearby.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 09/04/2026

Our April 2026 newsletter is out! disabilities.temple.edu/about-us/new...

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 08/04/2026

Join us Wednesdays in May at noon for free Lunch and Learn webinars on Augmentative and Alternative Communication! 📅 May 6: Lives, Not Just Language: Supporting Engagement and Participation for Adult AAC Users. ✔️ Sign up at disabilities.temple.edu/aac-webinar-...

Photo: Person taps on screen displaying their AAC app. Graphic: Webinars on Augmentative and Alternative Communication. May 6, 12 pm EDT - Lives, Not Just Language: Supporting Engagement and Participation for Adult AAC Users. May is National Speech-Language-Hearing Month.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 27/03/2026

We're hiring! - Executive Director - Assistive Technology and Accessibility Specialist – Telecommunications / Hearing Access - Assistive Technology and Accessibility Specialist – Community Access / Accessibility Learn more and apply: disabilities.temple.edu/careers-at-i...

Rays of sunlight beam between the wings of a large bronze owl sculpture alongside Temple University's Founders Garden and main library. Bright red flowers bloom beneath the owl. Text that reads, Career Opportunities. Institute on Disabilities.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 05/03/2026

Read the IOD's March 2026 newsletter for the latest on our work and achievements, plus upcoming events and opportunities. disabilities.temple.edu/about-us/new...

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 03/03/2026

IOD's Nova McGiffert shared resources and conversation starters around sexual health and healthy relationships at Prevention Meets Fashion's Feb. 21 Condom Fashion Show "...to bring in joy and education, also to help people really feel good about themselves and feel celebrated." buff.ly/evA2L8V

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 30/01/2026

Talking About Sexuality - Virtual workshop for parents, guardians, caregivers, and family members of youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Two dates available: February 11 and May 11. Space is limited, so don't wait to register. disabilities.temple.edu/programs-ser...

Parent and disabled teen chat in their family room

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 28/01/2026

Talking About Sexuality - free virtual workshop for parents of youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Two dates available: February 11 and May 11. Space is limited, so register early: disabilities.temple.edu/programs-ser...

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 28/01/2026

Transition to Kindergarten - Online or in person at Temple University! Tuesday, February 17, 10 am - 12 pm ET Is your child transitioning to Kindergarten in September? Our panel will go over everything you need to know. Seating is limited. Register: disabilities.temple.edu/families-first

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 25/01/2026

As part of Temple University, the Institute on Disabilities and our Tech OWL programs and Community Space will be closed on Monday, January 26, 2026 due to severe weather conditions. Staff safe and warm, all! 🦉

Temple University's iconic Bell Tower in near whiteout snow conditions and several vibrant cherry red Temple "T" banners that are whipped by wind.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 05/01/2026

Every Child Belongs: Using Trauma-Informed Strategies to Stop Exclusion for Preschoolers Webinar Date/Time: Tuesday, January 13 from 10 am to 12 pm ET. Register: disabilities.temple.edu/families-first

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 22/12/2025

Wishing you a season of rest and a new year filled with resolve, collaboration, and impact. — With solidarity from the IOD team at Temple University College of Education and Human Development and Executive Director, Sally Gould-Taylor Credit: Rachel Goldberg, artist at Center for Creative Works

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 04/12/2025

Filling Your Cup: A Holistic Approach to Caring for Yourself While Caring for Children with Disabilities Wednesday December 10th,10 am -12 pm ET. Register today for this Families First webinar! disabilities.temple.edu/families-first

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 03/12/2025

Thursday, December 11 – Putting the "AT" in Recreational Therapy! Inglis team members will highlight how low and high tech assistive technology are transforming recreation and daily living for people with disabilities. Webinars at 12 pm or 4 pm EST RSVP disabilities.temple.edu/assistive-te...

Two adults tend to houseplants arranged on several shelving units, one of them using a powerchair. Text reads, Putting the "AT" in Art. Thursday December 11 webinars at 12 pm or 4 pm. Find out how low and high tech assistive technology transform recreation and daily living for people with disabilities.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 02/12/2025

Together, we can make a difference! Join us this #GivingTuesday to support our work with Pennsylvanians with disabilities as we create and share knowledge, change systems and society, and promote self-determined lives. Learn more and donate: disabilities.temple.edu/about/giving

Someone makes "heart hands"framing the bronze owl mascot sculpture in Temple U's Founder's Garden

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 20/11/2025

You still have time to register for today's 4 pm webinar, Putting the "AT" in Art! disabilities.temple.edu/assistive-te... "AT" is assistive technology. Art therapist Alex Lee will explore how adaptive tools and technologies can expand artistic possibilities and promote access to art making.

A person at a desktop easel uses their prosthetic arm to brush paint onto paper using an adapted grip. Colorful paint palettes are arranged on the table next to a vessel of water for brush cleaning. Text reads, Putting the "AT" in Art. November 20 at 12 pm or 4 pm. Free webinar. Alex Lee, art therapist, will explore adaptive tools and technologies to expand artistic possibilities and promote access to art making. Pennsylvania Tech Accelerator: Tools for employment, independence, and socialization.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 11/11/2025

What’s new in low vision and blind technology? The Institute's TechOWL program celebrates Assistive Technology Awareness Month with 2 presentations on Monday November 17. 9 am: Low Vision and Braille Technology Vendor Exhibit 2 pm: Using Smart Glasses for Daily Tasks techowlpa.org/low-vision-a...

An adult wearing a Temple University t-shirt uses Smart Glasses while reading a document on the table in front of them. Text that reads, Low Vision and Blind Technology Event. November 17. What's new in low vision and blind technology?

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 07/11/2025

Need to finish your C2P2 application? You have until November 25, but why wait? C2P2 is leadership training in PA for: 🟣 Adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities / autism 🟣 Family members of a school-age child with intellectual/developmental disabilities /autism buff.ly/SFhPf9T

C2P2 2025 graduates, a group of mixed age, ability, race, and gender gathered for a group photo in front of a cherry red wall. Text that reads, C2P2 2026 applications due November 25.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 05/11/2025

November 2025 is Assistive Technology Awareness Month in Pennsylvania! Read Governor Shapiro's proclamation and learn about the Institute's TechOWL program that helps people with disabilities find and access assistive technology devices and services. disabilities.temple.edu/news/2025/11...

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Proclamation by the Governor, with full text, ornate heading fonts, a Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Proclamation by the Governor, with full text, ornate heading fonts, and the governor's gold seal with Pennsylvania's coat of arms. Text that says, November is Assistive Technology Awareness Month in Pennsylvania. Full plain text available at the link in this post.

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 03/11/2025

Tuesday, November 4 is Election Day in PA. Polls will be open from 7 am - 8 pm. We've put together resources focused on disabled Pennsylvanians: Voting Plan Checklist, helplines, links to info about accessible voting, ID requirements, and more. disabilities.temple.edu/resources/pe...

disabilities.temple.edu

Pennsylvania Voter Resources

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Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 30/10/2025

Share your vision for a more accessible Philadelphia! Join Liberty Resources and our TechOWL program for an important community conversation on shaping a more inclusive and accessible city for people with disabilities. RSVP today at bit.ly/VisionPhilly or call 215-634-2000 ext. 124.

Logos of Liberty Resources, the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, College of Education and Human Development, and TechOWL, Technology for Our Whole Lives. Tuesday, November 4, 10 am - 12 pm.
Ritter Annex, 1301 Cecil B. Moore Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19122.
RSVP today at bit.ly/VisionPhilly or call 215-634-2000 ext. 124

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