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The Arkansas Disability and Health Program began in 1988 at the Arkansas Department of Health as a disability prevention program focused mainly on accident and fall prevention. Later the CDC shifted their interest to the prevention of secondary conditions and maintaining good health of people with disabilities. At this time the disability & health program moved from the Department of Health to Partners for Inclusive Communities – UAMS. Today our mission is the general health promotion of people with disabilities and prevention of secondary conditions, and we enjoy joint offices at the Arkansas Department of Health and Partners for Inclusive Communities. With the Department of Health being the public health agency for the state and Partners being the disability center of excellence for the state; this collaboration of interest and resources has proven to be an excellent partnership for the Arkansas Disability & Health Program.
Meet the Staff
Vanessa Smith, LMSW
Program Director
vanessas@uark.edu
Vanessa has worked in the human services arena for 22 years with people who have mental illness and individuals with developmental disabilities. Before joining the Arkansas Disability and Health Program, Vanessa directed the development of training curriculum for Direct Support Professional, front line direct care staff working with individuals who have developmental disabilities.
Brandy Kilpatrick
Program Manager
bdkilpat@uark.edu
Brandy Kilpatrick graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Master’s of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling in 2012. Brandy has worked with individuals with disabilities in many capacities since beginning her career in 2006. She has extensive experience in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling, Supported Employment, Transition Counseling, and Case Management.