Advocacy
I often hear situations in which people with disabilities were not given a fair chance to give their own viewpoints. Often there are decisions made on a person’s behalf. The expectations is to just comply with whatever the professional or family member happens to say. It is so important that a person becomes empowered and has the opportunity to voice his or her own thoughts. What are the reasons why people are afraid to advocate? Let’s explore the issue of self-advocacy. What are your thoughts? Do you have a story to offer? Tell it!
Employment
Are you working? Are you happy with your job? Would like a better job? Are you concerned about losing your benefits? I know there are many non traditional ways to earn money. A person can work at home, start a business, sell on e-bay or invest, discover the best ways to make money without leaving home. The above suggestions do not require a person to travel in the community therefore, there is no need for transportation the ability to be active 8 straight hours. I would like to hear your views on this. If you would like to know more about investing, or how to use a computer to earn money, or improve on your vocational skills just let me know. I have been a vocational counselor, a job developer, a job developer, and a life skills instructor. I have over 15 years of professional experience. I have also written a self-help book which includes sections in the area of employment. Information and ideas from the perspective of a consumer and also a detailed explanation of an employment program.
Accessibility
Although Title 3 of the ADA states that buildings must be accessible to people with disabilities there are many places in the community that are not. If someone wants to live in an apartment that is accessible and affordable, finding one is likely to be a frustrating experience. I discovered one in my community but the problem with it was that it was merely a glorified nursing home. What have been your experiences? What advice would you give to someone who is relocating?
Coping
This section will encompass various social and psychological issues that affect you. What helps you get through the challenging times? I consider the whole situation and how it could be worse, then I realize that it isn’t so bad. I think it helps to have others in your life who can be mentors and offer a positive influence who you can turn to when you feel depressed. Sound advice is important even if it makes you feel unhappy. Look at and assess every aspect of it. Are you glad with the way your life is going? If not what can I help you do to improve your situation? I believe that everyone can make at least some small change in the overall picture regardless of what your specific disability is. Ultimately it is up to you. I will research available options for you no matter where you live, and it is then up to you to persue any of them. I do not have answers for you just what works for me.
4 comments:
Employment is a tricky issue. Like yourself I was employed in the field and was attached to Vocational Rehabilitation in the State of Nevada as a case manager. Often it is not as simple as just finding something you can do from home. I have true issues with consistancy of ability to perform functions of a job. Some days are good and I can be productive but I have a constant need for the balance of being able to say, "Today I just cannot do this". My ability to recognize this need came from hard lessons of pushing to hard and starting a downward cycle of pain and dysfunction. I operate on a very similar basis to an recovering alcholic....one day at a time and with my primary focus being my health needs. It frustrates me to know that I cannot promise efficiency. My mind is willing but my body must be in charge.
It is possible that people with disabilities will have better chances for employment in the future. Sen. Obama's Disability Plan includes employment matters such as tax incentives for small business owners with disabilities, and for employers to hire. He also pledges to hire 100,000 employers with disabilities in goverment in 5years. That is a tall order, but at least he is concerned about our plight. I'm starting "Obamability" that is a project that summarizes his 10 page report and shares it with others who have a concern for disability.
I would like to start a "chain of challenges" in which people with disabilities help each other. So many people are self absorbed and unwilling to look beyond their own challenges and help others who have different problems tan they do. I believe that by helping each you are helping yourslf also.
Post a Comment