Legislative Rally Draws
Record Attendance:
[From RHA Faces - Volume 3]

Wednesday, May 18, 2005 was an important day for North Carolinians who have mental illness, developmental disabilities or substance abuse addictions. The annual Legislative Rally sponsored by Coalition 2001 was held on the grounds of the Legislative Building in Raleigh, NC. Attendance approached 1,000 people, of which nearly 400 were individuals with developmental disabilities, their friends and family, and staff representing RHA. 

The event was a tremendous success. “Last year’s rally was great, but the Legislative Rally for 2005 was even better,” reports Mike Mayer, Vice President of Education and Community Relations for RHA. People receiving supports through RHA Health Services and RHA Howell Care Centers met face to face with their legislators to deliver one unified message, “Thank you for supporting people who have disabilities; restore funds recently cut from the Medicaid budget; and support Coalition 2001 budget proposals.”

All attendees from RHA appreciate the many statements heard from legislators that day and their later actions of support. There is power in numbers, and it was hard to miss the many bright colored signs, the speakers, and the faces of all the people who came together. It was an important day. It was a good day. It was a day for which everyone who participated could be proud.

For the latest updates on Coalition Action Alerts, you can contact Mike Mayer at his RHA office, 919-941-0530 or visit www.coalition2001.org.