Dylan M. Rafaty, MADR, CDP (deaf/HoH)

North Texas Disability Chamber (NTXDC) shall promote a more cohesive, transparent, informed, regional, member-based, cross-disability community via events and education hosted at accessible locations across North Texas.

The organization’s guiding pillars are threefold: Community Building, Community Education, and Interactive Engagement between People with Disabilities (PWDs) and People without Disabilities (PWOD).

This is a 501c(3), classified 509a(2) organization that was formed… Show more

North Texas Disability Chamber (NTXDC) shall promote a more cohesive, transparent, informed, regional, member-based, cross-disability community via events and education hosted at accessible locations across North Texas.

The organization’s guiding pillars are threefold: Community Building, Community Education, and Interactive Engagement between People with Disabilities (PWDs) and People without Disabilities (PWOD).

This is a 501c(3), classified 509a(2) organization that was formed in 2017 and was formerly DylanListed Connect. Show less

-Appointed to serve as a Non-voting Member on the Technical Advisory Panel.

The Commission on Disabilities is charged with developing programs to provide employment opportunities for people with disabilities; developing programs to address accessibility issues; developing community-based programs to enhance the quality of life for Dallas residents who have disabilities; developing programs to address the issues pertaining to alcoholism and drug abuse; developing programs to take full… Show more

-Appointed to serve as a Non-voting Member on the Technical Advisory Panel.

The Commission on Disabilities is charged with developing programs to provide employment opportunities for people with disabilities; developing programs to address accessibility issues; developing community-based programs to enhance the quality of life for Dallas residents who have disabilities; developing programs to address the issues pertaining to alcoholism and drug abuse; developing programs to take full advantage of all federal, state and local funding opportunities; developing programs to ensure adequate housing for people with disabilities; and developing programs to ensure accessible communications for people with disabilities. Show less

MENTOR’s mission is to fuel the quality and quantity of mentoring relationships for America’s young people and to close the mentoring gap for the one in three young people growing up without this critical support.

Advancing Local Field Leadership: Supporting the effectiveness of new and existing MENTOR Affiliates to scale MENTOR’s geographic footprint and deepen the impact of the mentoring field.

Expanding the Movement: Motivating civic leaders, employers, and individual… Show more

MENTOR’s mission is to fuel the quality and quantity of mentoring relationships for America’s young people and to close the mentoring gap for the one in three young people growing up without this critical support.

Advancing Local Field Leadership: Supporting the effectiveness of new and existing MENTOR Affiliates to scale MENTOR’s geographic footprint and deepen the impact of the mentoring field.

Expanding the Movement: Motivating civic leaders, employers, and individual stakeholders to prioritize and invest in ensuring all young people have access to mentoring relationships.

Prioritizing Quality: Identifying, promoting, and driving the implementation of evidence-based practices combined with community wisdom to increase the quality of mentoring relationships for young people.

Influencing Systems: Creating and guiding innovative solutions that integrate relationship-centered practices and policies while driving resources for the adoption of mentoring structures and mindsets within youth-serving systems. Show less

Disability Rights Texas (DRTx) is the Texas protection and advocacy agency.

Mission:
DRTx's mission is to help people with disabilities understand and exercise their rights under the law, ensuring their full and equal participation in society.

Vision:
We envision a society where all people are treated with dignity because each human being has worth.

Values:
- People with disabilities have basic human needs that are no different from those of all people.
- They… Show more

Disability Rights Texas (DRTx) is the Texas protection and advocacy agency.

Mission:
DRTx's mission is to help people with disabilities understand and exercise their rights under the law, ensuring their full and equal participation in society.

Vision:
We envision a society where all people are treated with dignity because each human being has worth.

Values:
- People with disabilities have basic human needs that are no different from those of all people.
- They have a right to freedom from neglect, exploitation, discrimination, and isolation, and a right to be included in all aspects of their communities.
- Disability is a natural part of the human experience.
- Disability does not diminish the right to live independently or to exert control and choice in your life. Show less

- Appointed by School Board Trustee David Stolle for a 3-year term.
- Term to start in Fall 2020.

Committee's Purpose:
- Advise the board concerning programs that provide students with career pathways and skills necessary to pursue a career.
-Study the advisability of adding, deleting, and changing various programs based on the needs of the community and student body of the district.
- The board of trustees or superintendent may direct the committee to study and make… Show more

- Appointed by School Board Trustee David Stolle for a 3-year term.
- Term to start in Fall 2020.

Committee's Purpose:
- Advise the board concerning programs that provide students with career pathways and skills necessary to pursue a career.
-Study the advisability of adding, deleting, and changing various programs based on the needs of the community and student body of the district.
- The board of trustees or superintendent may direct the committee to study and make recommendations on specific issues. Show less

During my time serving, I joined a group of professionals to help focus on specific legislative policies that can have an effect on the marginalized youth that Big Thought serves. Our goal is to track, gather support, and monitor legislative policies per Texas legislative cycle.

ABOUT BIG THOUGHT
Big Thought is an impact nonprofit that closes the opportunity gap by equipping all youth in marginalized communities with the skills and tools they need to imagine and create their best… Show more

During my time serving, I joined a group of professionals to help focus on specific legislative policies that can have an effect on the marginalized youth that Big Thought serves. Our goal is to track, gather support, and monitor legislative policies per Texas legislative cycle.

ABOUT BIG THOUGHT
Big Thought is an impact nonprofit that closes the opportunity gap by equipping all youth in marginalized communities with the skills and tools they need to imagine and create their best lives and a better world. Building on the strong foundation provided by family and caregivers, we are allies in young peoples’ growth, helping to prepare them for further education, work, and life. Show less

Mission: To advance international disability rights and inclusive development and to build bridges among the U.S. and foreign governments, disability and human rights communities, and the private sector through strategic advocacy, convening, and training and education.

Vision: USICD envisions a world where the rights of persons with disabilities are universally recognized and respected, where persons with disabilities are afforded full and equal participation in their communities, and… Show more

Mission: To advance international disability rights and inclusive development and to build bridges among the U.S. and foreign governments, disability and human rights communities, and the private sector through strategic advocacy, convening, and training and education.

Vision: USICD envisions a world where the rights of persons with disabilities are universally recognized and respected, where persons with disabilities are afforded full and equal participation in their communities, and where persons with disabilities are self-sufficient and live independent and self-determined lives. Show less

The Sandlot Children's Charity provides financial assistance for kids with physical and intellectual disabilities, specifically for those who are in pursuit of athletic opportunities and sport-specific experiences. Our goal is to not only deliver enjoyable activities but to also promote the continued development of social and leadership skills for these inspiring youth.

During my time serving, I helped launch the grants program and kickstart the Ambassador program. The purpose of our… Show more

The Sandlot Children's Charity provides financial assistance for kids with physical and intellectual disabilities, specifically for those who are in pursuit of athletic opportunities and sport-specific experiences. Our goal is to not only deliver enjoyable activities but to also promote the continued development of social and leadership skills for these inspiring youth.

During my time serving, I helped launch the grants program and kickstart the Ambassador program. The purpose of our grant program is to provide monetary support to individuals who have a physical or intellectual disability or organizations that serve and help those with physical and intellectual disabilities. The Sandlot Ambassador program encourages a network of motivated young professionals who want to increase awareness for the charity and make a big impact in DFW. Show less

Young Professionals of Plano (YPP) is a division of the Plano Chamber of Commerce focused on young professionals between the ages of 25 and 40. Our goal is to identify and grow emerging leaders, to attract and retain diverse young talent, and to engage that talent in civic, social, and educational opportunities within Collin County.

YPP Committee provides peer-driven leadership and guidance for the continued growth and success of the program. Meetings are held every month to plan events,… Show more

Young Professionals of Plano (YPP) is a division of the Plano Chamber of Commerce focused on young professionals between the ages of 25 and 40. Our goal is to identify and grow emerging leaders, to attract and retain diverse young talent, and to engage that talent in civic, social, and educational opportunities within Collin County.

YPP Committee provides peer-driven leadership and guidance for the continued growth and success of the program. Meetings are held every month to plan events, evaluate program success, and brainstorm new opportunities to engage local young professionals. Show less

Appointed by Councilmembers Richard Grady and Anthony Ricciardelli. The two-year term is to start on November 1st, 2022.

Responsibilities:
- Reviews building and site plans whereby variances may be granted to regulations for height, yard, area exterior structure, coverage, and parking regulations.
- May also review plans to grant variances to the regulations concerning sign appeals.

- Committee Member, Sept 2015-Aug 2019
- Elected as Vice Chair, Aug 2019-Oct 2022

Responsibilities include:
- Provide recommendations to the Governor and Legislature on disability issues (related to access, communications, education, emergency management, health, housing, recreation, transportation, veterans, and workforce).
- Promoting compliance with disability-related laws.
- Promoting a network of local committees doing similar work.
- Recognizing employers for… Show more

- Committee Member, Sept 2015-Aug 2019
- Elected as Vice Chair, Aug 2019-Oct 2022

Responsibilities include:
- Provide recommendations to the Governor and Legislature on disability issues (related to access, communications, education, emergency management, health, housing, recreation, transportation, veterans, and workforce).
- Promoting compliance with disability-related laws.
- Promoting a network of local committees doing similar work.
- Recognizing employers for hiring and retaining employees with disabilities and recognizing media professionals and students for positively depicting Texans with disabilities. Show less

Our goal is to analyze and provide input regarding the Active Transportation Plan, City Hall Renovation Project, Richardson Public Library Renovation Project and Parks and Recreation Open Space Master Plan.

Appointed by Mayor Paul Voelker

Appointed by Council Members Maria Tu and Shelby Williams on Monday, September 28th. It will be a two-year term; set to start November 1st, 2020.

Roles & Responsibilities:
- There are 8 members on the Building Standards Commission
- Hears appeals from decisions of the Building Official or Fire Chief
- Reviews and recommends proposed amendments to the building and fire codes
- Reviews building code requests for alternate materials or methods of construction and code… Show more

Appointed by Council Members Maria Tu and Shelby Williams on Monday, September 28th. It will be a two-year term; set to start November 1st, 2020.

Roles & Responsibilities:
- There are 8 members on the Building Standards Commission
- Hears appeals from decisions of the Building Official or Fire Chief
- Reviews and recommends proposed amendments to the building and fire codes
- Reviews building code requests for alternate materials or methods of construction and code enforcement cases for property maintenance, repairs, and abatement of dangerous buildings Show less

- Appointed by School Board Trustee Nancy Humphrey for a 3-year term.
- Term to start in Fall 2019.

Committee's Purpose:
- Making recommendations on the number of hours of instruction to be provided in health education, and reviewing curriculum appropriate for specific grade levels designed to prevent obesity, cardiovascular disease, and Type 2 diabetes.
- Reviewing and recommending methods of instruction for human sexuality in appropriate grade levels. - Review and… Show more

- Appointed by School Board Trustee Nancy Humphrey for a 3-year term.
- Term to start in Fall 2019.

Committee's Purpose:
- Making recommendations on the number of hours of instruction to be provided in health education, and reviewing curriculum appropriate for specific grade levels designed to prevent obesity, cardiovascular disease, and Type 2 diabetes.
- Reviewing and recommending methods of instruction for human sexuality in appropriate grade levels. - Review and recommend coordinated school health strategies for integrating appropriate curriculum components through the following: 1) health education, 2) physical education, 3) physical activity, 4) nutrition services, 5) parental involvement, 6) school health service, 7) counseling and guidance services, 8) employee wellness and 9) a safe and healthy school environment.
- The board of trustees may direct the committee to study and make recommendations on specific issues. Show less

Responsibilities Include:
- Providing guidance, support to Angel City Sports, its staff, and the organization.
- Serve as an ambassador to the organization, increase their fundraising efforts.
- Formally introduced C-Hear, Inc. / AdaptivApps to help kickstart, create, and develop Angel City Sports first-ever Virtual Games!
- Collaborate on all events (incl. virtual games, in-person clinics/games, galas, special events) and promote the need for accessibility / disability… Show more

Responsibilities Include:
- Providing guidance, support to Angel City Sports, its staff, and the organization.
- Serve as an ambassador to the organization, increase their fundraising efforts.
- Formally introduced C-Hear, Inc. / AdaptivApps to help kickstart, create, and develop Angel City Sports first-ever Virtual Games!
- Collaborate on all events (incl. virtual games, in-person clinics/games, galas, special events) and promote the need for accessibility / disability inclusion. Show less

Responsibilities include:
- The Plano ISD Council of PTA’s Programs position is assigned to identify programs of interest to PTA parents across the district.
- Schedule guest speakers for monthly delegate meetings.
- Share ideas with other PTA Program Chairs with email or Facebook; assist with questions; train with OCT and virtual roundtable event.

A nonprofit organization committed to making a difference in the lives of K-12 students, as well as, college-aged young adults. CAST focuses on emotional intelligence, mental health, and safety.

Responsibilities include:
- Serve as a direct North Texas / Dallas ambassador.
- Promote the 3-day weekend festivities through different communities, verticals; encouraging businesses, nonprofits, and members of the disability community to participate.
- Bringing in new ideas, sponsors, and entertainment to the showcases.

The SMU Simmons Graduate Council, Events Committee is tasked with helping to ideate, organize, and host social activities and other events designed to foster a sense of community among Simmons graduate students across all programs.

The Social Inclusion Committee is dedicated and committed to:
-Promoting Social Inclusion among People with Disabilities and US Veterans in the Ice Cream Industry.
-Providing Understanding and Educational Support.
-Community Outreach and Recognition.

Care & Mercy Foundation strives to be an organization that is God-Centered, reflecting the love of Christ by selflessly serving others. The Foundation serves others through supporting, enabling, and enhancing other charitable organizations. The Foundation helps in developing, executing, and achieving the fundraising goals of other charitable organizations.

This Foundation focuses on the fundraising needs of organizations serving (1) Special Needs children and adults and (2)… Show more

Care & Mercy Foundation strives to be an organization that is God-Centered, reflecting the love of Christ by selflessly serving others. The Foundation serves others through supporting, enabling, and enhancing other charitable organizations. The Foundation helps in developing, executing, and achieving the fundraising goals of other charitable organizations.

This Foundation focuses on the fundraising needs of organizations serving (1) Special Needs children and adults and (2) organizations serving Military Service Personnel (active duty, veterans, and their families). The Foundation provides both leadership in events and conducts turnkey events for these organizations. Show less

Committee Member Responsibilities:
- Serving the Board and its Directors on best practices in starting the organization, putting together curriculum, addressing unforeseen issues, and general other items as they may arise.
- Aiding Through The Cloud in finding, securing funding through general efforts, or directing them to sources where Board members may engage in meetings and presentations for fundraising.
- Serve as an ambassador for the organization in daily dealings with everyday… Show more

Committee Member Responsibilities:
- Serving the Board and its Directors on best practices in starting the organization, putting together curriculum, addressing unforeseen issues, and general other items as they may arise.
- Aiding Through The Cloud in finding, securing funding through general efforts, or directing them to sources where Board members may engage in meetings and presentations for fundraising.
- Serve as an ambassador for the organization in daily dealings with everyday interactions.
- Participate in Quarterly meetings with other advisors and Board members to share experiences and best practices. Show less

- Appointed on Sept. 2019 to serve 2-year term.
- Term to start on November 1st, 2019.

Responsibilities include:
- Oversees the Community Development Block Grant and the Community Service Grants.
- Reviews and makes recommendations regarding significant community problems impacting the quality of life.
- Serves as a hearing board to address significant issues as directed by the Council.

- Appointed by former School Board Trustee, Dr. Yoram Solomon.

Responsibilities include:
- Assist, guide Special Education Department on goals set by the Plano ISD School Board.
- Provide recommendations to better aid the district.
- Introduced the idea and collaborated with parents, educators to officially launch the Special Education (SpEd) Navigator; a one-stop portal for families, teachers, and students to access important, detailed information.