In this space we will be sharing personal stories – from consumers, families, staff, board, volunteers, community partners – that help showcase the people associated with Champlain Community Services who make it so unique. Champlain Voices self-advocates’ efforts to tell their stories is supported by a grant from the Vermont Developmental Disabilities Council (VDDC). Thank you!
Mark
Mark Utter is a newcomer to CCS, but a familiar face to many of us. He created the film I Am In Here, and has since created a company called Utter Communication Strategies. In coming to CCS, Mark has a goal of bringing this company to the marketplace through Way2Work’s supported self-employment program.
Hi Folks! My advocacy is best done through words.
Here is a nice story I have been working on with Erica Heilman for her podcast Rumble Strip. It won “Best in Show” at The Timbre.
Thanks! – Mark
For more information about Mark and his life changing short film, visit www.utterenergy.org
Whitley
My name is Whitley Draper and I moved from Colorado to Essex Junction, Vermont last fall. I am a member of Champlain Voices; a self-advocacy group which is a part of Green Mountain Self Advocates. Being new to Vermont, it has helped me to speak up for myself and discuss my needs. It has been fun meeting new people and learning about activities in the area. I am looking for a job and hope to have an internship soon.
In our advocacy group we are writing stories that will assist policy makers make changes that will improve the quality our lives. I am working on a story that I’ll share with Vermont legislators about my difficulties with transportation.
Since I am new to the area I know I need to participate in activities so I can socialize and meet new friends. Transportation to and from events is a problem since bus transportation is limited in my area. My family is looking into other special transportation services but right now I have to rely on my parents to give me rides everywhere. I would like to be more independent and not feel left out.
I will share this story with legislators and our upcoming Legislative Lunch on October 5th at Champlain Community Services from 1:00-3:00.
Thank you for listening to my story.
Beverly
I’m Beverly; the new Interim President of Champlain Voices. Our group is part of Green Mountain Self Advocates, a statewide organization supporting the efforts of people with developmental disabilities to take control of all aspects of their lives.
I have been elected for the role our former President, Taylor, left when she moved back to her former advocacy group. I’m following in Taylor’s footsteps but at the same time trying to be me and do my best as the President. I never thought I’d say that . . .
I used to be the person in the group that might not say anything at all during a meeting. This past fall I took on the role of Secretary for the group so I was really watching as I took notes on how Taylor was President. I would watch her knowing that she’s just regular person with all the same issues we all go through and appreciated how she could set that aside and stand up proudly in front of the group. She seemed very comfortable and clear with sharing her thoughts and taking command of our meetings. I starting thinking, for the first time “Oh, that’s easy. I could do that leadership role”. Now that I’m President I realize it’s harder than it looks. Sometimes I have to give myself a pep talk in the car on the way to the meeting so I can put my best foot forward. I have to ask myself. “How can I rise up through what I’m feeling today and be the President the group is needing me to be?”
I’m learning a lot about running our group. When I do this successfully I have to admit that it feels wonderful to be President. I know I’m not just helping myself, I’m helping others too. The more our group talks together in our meetings the more we can open our minds. In hearing each others’ stories and experiences and wishes and desires, we can wake up our minds to new opportunities and focus on what we really want to do with our lives.
And, Thanks to Beverly for being the first story (good leadership!)