From The Learning Disabilities Association of the Genesee Valley....
"Steve skillfully and sensitively guided workshop participants through the steps toward self-determination. Because he related to the group as one who has experienced and overcome devastating hardships, people were comfortable in sharing their experiences with obstacles and doubt. Because of Steve's gift to turn challenges into opportunity and to convey this to participants, people became enthusiastic about learning how to set individual life goals, identify natural supports and make action plans to achieve their goals. Individuals spoke movingly of their increased self-esteem, their enhanced ability to trust and to ask for help and their discovery of their own power to advocate for themselves."
"Steve Liscio and "Pathways to Empowerment" had a powerful impact on everyone who took part. I am enclosing discussion summaries of consumer comment that were recorded after the first and final sessions."
Colin Garwood, Executive Director
From Catholic Charities
"We tried a class in the Art of Positive Thinking, but I wasn't reaching them. I had heard of Steve from a friend at the DDSO who had been to one of his workshops and she raved about Steve. When he came he engaged these women at once, which is in itself a difficult accomplishment because they have learned not to trust strangers. He had them laughing and getting up and exercising right away. Then he began to engage them one-to-one with the skills of a trained psychotherapist. We learned a lot about one another that day, and I believe my Moms are in a better place mentally and spiritually because of Steve."
"Thank you Steve for giving of yourself so completely."
Judith A. Reichenthal, MSEd
Parent Educator Community Maternity Services
"Steve has a unique gift for getting participants to do what they need to do in order for their lives to improve. The stories he shares, from his own life, encourage audiences to risk and better their lives."
John J. Pelizza, Ph.D.
President Pelizza & Associates
"Steve's inspirational message is important to individuals with disabilities, their families, and all members of the public. He is informative, positive, motivational and encouraging to all."
Judith I. Avner
Executive Director Brain Injury Association of NYS
"Indeed, you should be most proud of the way in which you have overcome serious challenges and transformed them into positive action. You are an inspiration to all with whom you come in contact, I am honored to know you."
Paul D. Tonko
Assemblyman 105th district New York State Assembly
"Saying great things about Steve Liscio is easy. Few people share his exceptional talents, unique abilities, passion and personal dedication to people with special needs."
"Nothing that Steve takes on is done halfway. He is an exceptional presenter and workshop leader. He presents an important message of personal empowerment that is powerful for people with disabilities and others who are marginalized from the mainstream."
"More important, however, is his commitment to not only "talk the talk", but to "walk the walk." Steve offers guidance and mentoring to the people with whom he interacts as they engage in their own personal journeys. He then follows through with them to continually establish and refine their personal goals."
David A. Du Bois, Ph.D.
Founder
The Institute for Disability Opportunities through Leadership Education Advocacy and Diversity
