The Peer Power Partners (PPP) mentoring program is kicking off its 2016-17 programming on Oct. 17-18 with engaging community events led by Kerry Magro, an award-winning disability advocate and non-profit leader.

While in Austin Magro will give presentations and lead interactive activities with students, staff and community members. A free community event will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 17 at the Hormel Historic Home. PPP coordinator Mary Barinka will provide an update about the program and its impact, and Magro will follow with a presentation about how parents, caregivers, and the community in general can be proactive in supporting their family, friends, and neighbors with disabilities. Copies of Magro’s books, Defining Autism From the Heart and Autism and Falling in Love will be available for purchase at the event, and CEUs are also available for those interested.

During the day Magro will travel between Austin High School, Ellis Middle School, and I.J. Holton Intermediate School, giving presentations.

He will focus on overcoming obstacles, how to succeed in school, and how to make a difference for those who are mentally, physically, or socially challenged.

Magro will also lead small group activities to build awareness about disabilities and answer questions about his experiences.

Magro is one of the only professionally certified speakers with autism in the country. He was completely non-verbal until the age of 2½ and was diagnosed at age 4. He has spoken at over 630 events, including two TEDx Talks, as well as hosting his own local cable show called “Different is Beautiful.”

More information can be found at his website, www.kerrymagro.com.

Peer Power Partners is a mentoring program that pairs youth with special needs and same-aged peers to promote friendships, understanding and advocacy. Launched in 2013 with the help of the Vision 2020 Community Pride and Spirit committee, PPP has grown to serve over 200 students at three schools.

PPP is a collaborative project between the Parenting Resource Center and Austin Public Schools, with funding support from The Hormel Foundation, the Austin Public Education Foundation, and private donations. For further inquiries, please contact Peer Power Partners coordinator Mary Barinka at 507-434-0402 or tmbarinka@charter.net.