Ellyn Hefner and Advocacy Part One: Advocacy Adventures

Per 501(c)3 rules, it is important to note that Oklahoma Family Network cannot and does not endorse any one candidate for any reason.  The purpose of this podcast is to bring awareness, conversation, education, and support to families who have children with special health care needs or disabilities.  Ellyn's personal journey takes her to candidacy level advocacy, and you will hear about some of that today.

 

Thank you for joining us today on the Oklahoma Family Network's podcast to learn more from families who have children with special health care needs and disabilities and hear ideas on how you can get more involved with advocacy efforts in your area. 

 

Oklahoma Family Network is incredibly happy to share the first episode of a three-part conversation with Ellyn Hefner.  After the birth of her son, William, and learning how to be the best mom and advocate for William, Ellyn, shifted careers to become a family support partner for the Oklahoma Family Network.

 

She became more involved at the policy level after graduating from Partners in Policymaking and she served on the Interagency Coordinating Council for Sooner Start as a member and Chair.

 

She has spent the last 18 years as a caregiver and professional dedicated to helping Oklahoma parents find hope and resources for their children with IDD and in today's podcast with Ellyn, you will hear about foundational experiences which have opened the door, which has led her to where she is now.