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People First of New Hampshire How Self-Advocacy Works |
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Don't know of a self-advocacy group in your area? We'd like to help you get one started. Just call us at 1-800-566-2128 or email us at info@peoplefirstofnh.org
Photo of Our Goals Group - Concord Area Left to right Top: Craig Brown, Tracy Carter, Nate Therrien, Jennifer Mazzola Left to right Bottom: Patricia Cloutier, Chester Hill |
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Here is what parents and young adults have to say about self-advocacy: Cory Pierson: "It has taught me its ok to be me and follow my goals" Nate's Mom (Vicki Therrien): "Nate always says that he needs to "take responsibility!". Through Future Goals, he has learned to share his opinions, needs, and to self- advocate at work and in his community. With the group, he also learns planning skills and organization. They have a binder of notes. They need to remember meeting times, and pay for pizza. He has had the opportunity to develop leadership skills when he was voted in as president. His self-esteem has grown as well as his skills in speaking in front of a group. Recently the group invited state representatives to their meeting. Nate independently asked his question concerning funding of Medicaid. Best of all, Nate always says, "I have friends" when he leaves a meeting. Future Goals is a wonderful opportunity for Nate." |
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Dee's
Mom (Sandra LeBeau): "Dee
really looks forward to her meetings with Self-Builders every month.
She was introduced to the group by a young woman in New London who was
already part of the group.
Dee loves going to Henniker with her friend and now wants Andrea to come
with her to camp this summer.
Finding Self-Builders was especially important for Dee since she moved to
this area as an adult and knew no one.
Now she has some new people as part of her life here and she is very
happy about that." To
the right is a photo of Dee LeBeau
taken June, 2005. Dee had a solo dance performance during the
recital at the Claremont Opera House.
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From
Alicia's Mom (Terry Ryan): "As parents,
we forget that our kids have their own dreams and ambitions and most
importantly, their own Voice. People First gives our kids the opportunity
to speak and reminds us as parents that we need to step back and listen.
Our kids are so much more than their disability."
(Note: Terry found our People First of NH
website and called to ask us to help start a new group for Alicia and her teen
friends in their area! The group is now over 10 years old and is
called Fun With Friends)
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