Little People of America

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Little People of America (LPA) is a Non-profit organization which provides support and information to those with dwarfism 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 was started informally when in 1957 Billy Barty called upon little people to join him in a weeklong get-together in Reno, Nevada. 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."

"LPA is dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with dwarfism throughout their lives while celebrating with great pride Little People’s contribution to social diversity. LPA strives to bring solutions and global awareness to the prominent issues affecting individuals of short stature and their families."^[1]