Small towns often have big hearts and Homer is no exception. On March 2, families, friends and people who experience developmental disabilities came together to raise public and legislative awareness of the need for supportive service funding. In Homer the Key Campaign Rally held at WKFL Park was well attended. The rally's statewide message was clear: "No more wait list."

Currently, more than 1,200 individuals who experience developmental disabilities are waiting for support. The developmental disabilities service agencies in Alaska are, as usual, facing large budget cuts. Many people who are not personally touched by the lives of those who experience developmental disabilities are unaware of the positive impact well-funded services can have. We should not take for granted the services our community provides for these individuals and their families. All Alaskans are entitled to be valued and to experience a quality life.

How is it possible that our country can lead rescue missions abroad and then not prioritize the rescue of our own babies, children, young people, adults and the elderly? We are blessed to live in a small community. Think of the people you spend time with, who you see at the grocery store, your children's friends, their classmates. At least one of them is probably affected by this issue.

Many of us are unaware of the positive changes that have occurred regarding the care of individuals with developmental disabilities. Historically these people were taken out of their homes and put into institutions. This placed a strain on public health care funds. Our society finally came to realize that allowing these individuals to remain in their homes and communities, with appropriate supports in place, would give them previously unheard of opportunities. They could be given the chance to become needed and contributing members of society. This has happened very successfully, while lowering the government costs related to their care.

Being part of this great team within our community has been a privilege for me. I have grown up with parents who are strong advocates, and through love, lobbying and going the extra mile they have helped many people. Learning by example, I am now compelled to ask for your help. If you have 10 minutes, would you please join me? Exercise the rights we have and make your voice heard. Send a quick e-mail to the legislature stating your support for five Key Campaign Legislative Priorities: wait-list reduction, services for people not receiving Medicaid support, the infant learning program (72 infants currently are waiting for help), system reform, dental services and early hearing detection and intervention.

If you simply put this paper down and go about your daily business, the wait list for your fellow Alaskans will grow longer. Let us show our politicians how much we care.

You can contact legislators by sending a Public Opinion Message (POM) to legis.state.ak.us.poms/. For additional information on the platform, contact the Key Coalition at 272-8270 or 1-888-291-2641. Local program information can be found by calling Susan Drathman, coordinator of PRIDE — Promoting Responsibility, Individual Development and Empowerment — at 235-7805.

Many thanks to all who give 10 minutes, and to the professionals in Alaska who give many hours and all of their hearts.

Karen Corbell is working toward a bachelor's degree in elementary education, with a goal of acquiring a master's degree in special education. She is a skills trainer for the Homer Community Mental Health Center.