June 10, 2008

To Whom it may concern:

My name is C. Colemon Davis and I go by “CC.”  I am writing this letter to recommend Dan Arabie for any position requiring leadership and sustained energy and effort.  I am a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with long-time service to people who are deaf-blind.  I know Dan from my professional work in the field of deaf-blindness.  Dan has worked very diligently for the Usher Syndrome people of Louisiana and has accomplished a great deal, including the following:

·       Galvanized people with Usher Syndrome into a cohesive consumer group that has positively affected service delivery and policies in Louisiana.

·       Organized the Louisiana Acadian Deaf-Blind Citizens (LADBC) into an effective organization, active as a social support group and advocacy group.

·       Become engaged in the issues affecting the American Association of the Deaf-Blind by actively communicating with its members regarding what they would like to see in a national organization.

·       Successfully organized advocacy efforts to obtain funding for SSP services for deaf-blind Louisianans.

·       Worked on developing leaders in the deaf-blind community by promoting and recognizing the efforts of many deaf-blind people who are trying to make a positive difference in their communities. 

I am certain that Dan will work very hard to be an effective leader in any endeavor he would undertake.  He would enlist the assistance and collaboration of others and unify people in order to accomplish common goals for the betterment of people who are deaf-blind.  He understands the importance of not only reducing the isolation that deaf-blind people experience through creation of social support networks, but he also recognizes  the importance of the development of independent living skills and vocational skills in order to create productive American citizens.  Moreover, he knows that progress is only made when communities collaborate and work as a team.  The deaf-blind world is a very diverse world, with people from all walks of life, with all manner of communication methods, and varied interests.  Dan has shown an interest in learning about - and responding to - the needs of all deaf-blind people. 

Sincerely,

C. Colemon Davis (“CC”), VRC and Deaf-Blind Specialist

 Richardson, TX