The Paradise Center for Tolerance and Nonviolence (PCTN) will present a community forum on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2010, from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at the Creative Learning Center in Paradise.

The purpose of the Ability Awareness Forum (taking the 'dis' out of disability) is to foster awareness and build bridges. It will be of interest to a uniquely broad gathering.

Individuals with varied types of disabilities, their caregivers/supporters, as well as the general public, will be treated to an educational and enlightening afternoon.

An interpreter will be present to sign for those with hearing impairments.

A panel of speakers, including persons with different abilities, a special education teacher who is also the parent of a child with autism, and an advocate for the disabled, will share how they navigate life and contribute to our communities.

Their personal stories will overcome stereotypes, make people aware of their many talents, and educate about the challenges they face.

The program will include a question and answer period, and a highlight will be a celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), complete with birthday cake for everyone.

Many local service organizations, including California Developmental Disabilities Area Board II, Independent Living Services of Northern California, Work Training Center/Made in Paradise, Far Northern Regional Center, DogFite activist group, local People First Chapters, Rowell Family Empowerment, and California United Homecare Workers will be on hand with materials and representatives to answer your questions. ADA pamphlets with informative Q&A's will be available.

Become better informed. Make beneficial connections regarding services.

The forum will be held at the Creative Learning Center at 1080 Ewald Court in Paradise.

It is sponsored by PCTN, with contributions from The California Endowment, the Rural Education Institute, People First of Chico, California Developmental Disabilities Area Board II, Friends of Independent Living Services of Northern California (ILSNC), California United Homecare Workers, and the Work Training Center/Creative Learning Center.

For more information, call the Paradise Center for Tolerance and Nonviolence at 877-1856 or e-mail to pctn@sbcglobal.net.