The Linner Foundation

11/01/2025

10/23/2025

🧩 Strengthening Families & Expanding Support Across DC

As a proud member of the DC Family Support Council (FSC), I’m honored to continue serving families, caregivers, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across our city.
The FSC is a public advisory council that provides guidance and recommendations to the Department on Disability Services (DDS) and its sister agencies — helping to develop person- and family-centered systems of support that serve individuals throughout every stage of life.

This week’s meeting was powerful and informative, as we heard vital local and national updates on Medicaid from:
💬 Melisa Byrd, Medicaid Director, DC Department of Health Care Finance (DCHF)

💬 Anna Dunn, President, Health Services for Children with Special Needs (HSCSN), Children’s National
These conversations are essential to improving access to healthcare, strengthening family support systems, and ensuring that every DC resident — especially those with disabilities — has the care, dignity, and opportunities they deserve.
Together, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive Washington, D.C. 💪🏽


📧 [email protected] | 🌐 www.oliver4dc.com

10/21/2025

Community Engagement & Leadership Update from Oliver Linner Roy
Advocating for Families, Education, and Equity Across Ward 8 and the District of Columbia

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Over the past several weeks, I’ve continued my commitment to serve Ward 8 and the greater District by standing with families, parents, and community members in the fight for equity, justice, and opportunity. My work has focused on strengthening access to education, health, employment, and family support — ensuring that every resident has a voice and a seat at the table.

Recent Highlights of Community and Advocacy Work:

Health and Wellness Preparedness:
Collaborated with the Department on Disability Services (DDS) and community providers to help families prepare for the upcoming cold and flu season, promoting wellness awareness and distributing preventive health resources across Ward 8.

Community Empowerment through Resources:
Participated in the DC Housing Authority’s “Rebuilding Our Community” Resource Fair, engaging residents and connecting them to critical resources, employment opportunities, and local support networks that strengthen families and communities.

Educational Leadership and Policy Development:
Represented Ward 8 at the OSSE Superintendent’s Advisory Council, working on the creation of fair and responsible cell phone policies in DC Public Schools that prioritize student safety, focus, and accountability in learning environments.

Empowering Parent Amplifying Voices in Education (2025–2026):
Honored to serve on the Improving Voices in Education 2025–2026 Board, representing Ward 8 parents and families. This group is dedicated to fighting for stronger parent rights, better education quality, and improved communication between schools and families. Our mission is to ensure that every parent has a voice in shaping the future of their child’s education and that policies truly reflect the needs of our communities.

Advocate for Justice and Education Advocacy:
Engaged in the DC Advocate for Justice and Education Support Group Meeting, addressing issues impacting students and families navigating the education and justice systems, and advocating for reforms that support fairness and inclusion.

Disability Rights and Policy Advocacy:
Participated in the District of Columbia Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC) Advisory and Public Policy Committee Meeting, focusing on improving services and policies that enhance inclusion, accessibility, and independence for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Family and Caregiver Support:
Collaborated in the Quality Trust Family Support Council Meeting, providing guidance and partnership to strengthen supports for parents and caregivers of children with disabilities and special needs across the District.

Community Utility Awareness:
Attended the Office of the People’s Counsel (OPC) Water Summit – “Your Water, Your Power”, ensuring residents are informed about water resources, consumer rights, and assistance programs to help families manage essential utilities.

Workforce Development and Violence Prevention:
Participated in the 2025 “Jobs Not Guns, Jobs Not Drugs” Citywide Recruitment Fair at the RFK Campus, promoting employment opportunities, job training, and workforce development as key solutions to violence prevention and community growth.

Through these efforts, I remain dedicated to empowering families, uplifting communities, and driving meaningful change throughout Ward 8 and the District of Columbia. Together, we continue to build a future where every resident has access to the tools, opportunities, and respect they deserve.

With gratitude and continued commitment,
Oliver Linner Roy