Meet Diane Graham, Resource & Development Specialist at the Access Center for Independent Living (ACIL).
As someone with a strong background in housing, Diane has a keen awareness of the need for housing for people of all abilities and is passionate about helping to make it a reality.
“We have made great strides in disability advocacy in the Dayton community but there is still much work to be done. Everyone deserves housing that can accommodate their needs,” she said.
While serving as the Executive Director of Dayton Ohio Habitat for Humanity, Diane attended a luncheon hosted by Miami Valley Fair Housing at Sinclair Community College. She sat next to Greg Kramer, who was serving as ACIL’s Interim Executive Director at the time.
“When Greg told me about ACIL, its mission, and the challenges that the organization was experiencing, I felt I could help, so I became a board member. After serving on the board for a couple of years, I wanted to be able to help more. The Resource & Development Specialist was created to allow me to do just that,” she said.
ACIL was conducting our Think This Is Easy? (TTIE) disability awareness training at the housing luncheon where Diane first learned about ACIL. The training sparked her interest.
“It is my greatest pleasure to share the services available at ACIL. Publicizing TTIE is my favorite aspect of my job because the training helps anyone who goes through it to be more aware of the challenges people with disability face. I have met consumers who have[sic] sight and hearing challenges through ACIL. I really appreciate having a better understanding of how those individuals can be accommodated,” she said.
When she is not focused on ACIL’s resource development, you’re likely to find Diane enjoying needlework, reading, or gardening.
“People may be surprised to hear that I enjoy and follow many sports. I especially enjoy watching football and am a big fan of the Cleveland Browns,” she said.
A native Daytonian, Diane graduated from Dayton Public Schools and the University of Dayton before earning a Master’s degree from Antioch University McGregor.
Diane loves cooking for her loved ones as well. She and her husband, Frank, have been married for 55 years. They share two children and four grandchildren.
Diane loves being a grandmother. She is proud of her grandchildren, speaks of them often, and happily takes them on vacation with her each year.
Need to get in touch with Diane? Contact her 937-341-5202 Extension 103 or [email protected]
Diane Graham
