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Honoring the Memory of our Colleague, Our Friend: Lissa True

Categories: Disability Type, Featured, Learning Disabilities, Parenting, Students

It is with deep sadness that we share news of the passing of our colleague and our friend Lissa True. Lissa has been a valued member of our Learning Ally family, and our deepest sympathy goes out to her husband Dean, children Anthony and Victoria, and her extended family.

Lisa with Yes! Program Members and Friends, Smiling

That family includes the national community around YES! (Youth Examples of Self Advocacy), the program that Lissa developed to support children with dyslexia. In September 2014, Lissa brought the Colorado-based YES! program into Learning Ally along with Sally Pistilli, another parent and volunteer. Since that time, YES! has expanded to three other states – NJ, MA and UT – impacting and helping hundreds of students and their families.

Lissa was the catalyst for launching all these programs, recruiting volunteer parent leaders, and training and coaching student leaders as YES! Ambassadors. Additionally, Lissa helped spearhead a virtual support program through the web to help students across the country with tools and resources for self-advocacy. Her tireless work ethic and incredible passion will be tremendously missed.

On a personal note, Lissa wore a Mickey Mouse watch on her wrist.  When I asked her about it – she said that it was there to remind her and everyone that she wanted to fill Disney World with kids holding purple YES! Balloons. Our hearts are heavy, but our mission goes on to fulfill the work this amazing woman began. Lissa will not be forgotten.

Yes Program Members Holding Purple Balloons

Regards, Cynthia Hamburger Chief Operating Officer & CIO Learning Ally