On Christmas morning, the Special Education Legal Fund (S.E.L.F.), a nonprofit organization based in Greenwich, Connecticut, made a memorable appearance on the ‘Today Show’ as part of the holiday segment ‘Jenna & Friends’. The segment was co-hosted by local residents Jenna Hager and Henry Hager, both strong advocates for the organization.
S.E.L.F. is dedicated to supporting families of children with disabilities by providing legal advocacy grants and educational resources, ensuring that these families have equitable access to essential special education services. Following the broadcast, the organization expressed profound gratitude to Jenna, Henry, and the entire ‘Today Show’ team for the spotlight, which they termed a “Christmas miracle.” Special thanks were also directed at S.E.L.F. staff attorney Laura Sullivan, Brittany Diggs, and her daughters, as well as longstanding partners Wealthspire Advisors and Winston Preparatory School for their contributions in making the appearance impactful.
The segment featured a heartfelt display of support from both Wealthspire Advisors and Winston Preparatory School. In honor of John H. Hager, the late former Lieutenant Governor of Virginia and dedicated disability rights advocate, each organization presented a generous donation of $10,000 to S.E.L.F., contributing to the John H. Hager Memorial Fund. This fund is intended to further S.E.L.F.’s mission of providing crucial legal advocacy and educational resources to families.
Christine Lai, Executive Director of S.E.L.F., expressed appreciation for the generosity shown by Wealthspire Advisors and Winston Preparatory School, highlighting their commitment to honoring John H. Hager’s legacy through their support. Lai emphasized that these donations are pivotal in expanding opportunities, advocacy, and hope for students and families across the nation. The organization also extended its thanks to NBCUniversal and the production team at ‘Today Show’ for offering such a significant national platform for their cause.
This uplifting moment not only showcases the importance of community support but also reinforces S.E.L.F.’s mission to empower families of children with disabilities, ensuring that they receive the resources they need to thrive.