New Trier Township Committee on Disabilities
Hosting movie discussion group
FREE to residents
Glencoe, Kenilworth, Northfield, Wilmette and Winnetka

Tuesday, October 23, 2012
6:00 p.m.

Wilmette Public Library Auditorium

 

A professional book and film discussion leader will use two award-winning movies as a platform for discussions of issues faced by people across the Township with regard to disabilities and people caring for loved ones with a disability.

The movies to be discussed, My Left Foot and Temple Grandin, depict unique individuals who overcame significant disabilities and challenging environments.  Both movies are available for rental at libraries in the Township.  While viewing the movies is not required, residents are encouraged to see the movies in advance of the discussion.  Clips from both films will be shown during the event.

My Left Foot is an Academy Award winning film based on the true story of Christy Brown who overcomes the challenges of cerebral palsy by developing his talent as an artist through the use of his left foot.  Temple Grandin is an Emmy Award winning HBO film based on the true story of Temple Grandin who was ridiculed as a child for having autism.  After pursuing a Ph.D. in animal husbandry, Dr. Grandin ultimately becomes an advocate on behalf of autism and animal handling.

The two movies serve to display a broad range of issues that will make for a productive conversation to raise awareness and engage in a community dialogue concerning resources and support available within the community.

Barry Fleischer, chairman of the New Trier Township Committee on Disabilities commented, "With the introduction of this event, we hope to include residents of all abilities who have an interest in discussing meaningful movies and make the link to issues that affect members of our community every day.  In addition, we'll be able to address resources available for those with disabilities.  The film discussion format and professional facilitator will promote a lively and informative evening."

The New Trier Township Committee on Disabilities strives to perform education and advocacy on behalf of persons with disabilities living in New Trier Township.  For more information about this event or the services and programs of the committee, contact Brian Leverenz at 847-446-8203 or bleverenz@newtriertownship.com.