Debbie Newman,
North Central Jurisdiction

Debby Newman is a member of Centennial UMC in Roseville, Minnesota, where she and her husband lead a group of young adults with developmental disabilities. Classes are adapted so all students can participate at individual functional levels. The Flames also participate with the full church community as ushers, serving communion and meals, as well as volunteering at Habitat for Humanity and more.

Debby is an active volunteer in the Twin Cities disability community. For 20 years, she has been a Special Olympics coach. She is her daughter's biggest cheer leader!

She has given national presentations on using best practices for accessible web and other electronic communications. She also produced a video, "See it, Say it, Sign it," (ASL) for the Minnesota Conference. Currently, she is administering a Super Powers grant, empowering vulnerable teens and adults to be safe in the community. Her company, Accessibility Answers, helps seniors and people with disabilities find resources to live and thrive in their communities, rather than nursing or group homes.

"I look forward to serving with others on the task force to promote best practices for autonomy and inclusivity in the church and the world," Debby says.