Little People of America
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Little People of America (LPA) is a not-for-profit organization which provides support and information to dwarfs and their families. Membership in LPA is limited to people 4'10" and under, their families, or those who "demonstrate a well-founded interest in issues relating to dwarfism."
LPA got started informally when Billy Barty hosted a weeklong get-together in Reno, Nevada for people of short stature. That original meeting of 21 people grew into the Little People of America, a group which as of 2005 has more than 6,000 members. They have local chapters which meet regularly as well as an annual weeklong conference. They publish a parenting support newsletter, Parents Forum, as well as a national newsletter, LPA Today
Their mission statement says "Little People of America, Inc. (LPA), will assist dwarfs with their physical and developmental concerns resulting from short stature. By providing medical, environmental, educational, vocational, and parental guidance, short-statured individuals and their families may enhance their lives and lifestyles with minimal limitations. Through peer support and personal example, our members will be supportive of all those who reach out to LPA. Lastly, by networking with national and international growth-related and genetic-support groups, LPA will enhance knowledge and support of short-statured individuals."
[edit] External links
- Little People of America Web site
- Dwarfblog news about LPA online, LPA and "the wide world of dwarfism"
- Restricted Growth Association - UK Group