By Rebecca Page

A self advocate

Growing up. . .

I had 5 brothers and sisters

Mom taught us all to make goals and have dreams

I wanted to be a leader and give speeches. . .

As a senior in HS, I attended my first Youth Leadership Conference

I graduated HS in 2008 and gave my first speech about being a leader.

After I graduated, I attended my first National Down Syndrome Conference

Self-Direction Support Services

We learned about Self-Direction at a conference

I was the first one in my group of friends to try it

It helped me dream my dreams and now live my dreams

Person Centered P lanning is Important

We explored my strengths and now I don’t waste time forced into activities I do not enjoy.

I want to chose where I live and how I spend my money

I want to go to college

I want to have my own business doing my arts and public speaking

I want to get married some day

I need a Support SystemPeople who support me

1st – They find out what my skills are –What can I do? my arts, and my Isagenix business

Find out what my needs are – What do I need help with? – driving, paying bills, chores, cooking, etc.

I do my best at my skills and talents

I have Independence with support

Consumer Direction

I am on the PHC Program here in Texas with Alamo Consumer Direct Agency to help me Direct my own services.My support workers were my friends and familyI have been able to accomplish my goals and dreams - even earn a Congressional Gold MedalI recommend it to everyone!

Independent Living

I live in my own home!

I am as independent as possible and I can live my dreams !

I make own decis ions

About where I live

About my social life

About my faith

About my time in the community

About relationships

About What I Eat

About my business “Livin My Dreams “

Relationships

Dating – I need Opportunities to meet boys

I need chaperones on dates to make good decisions

I want to hold hands like other couples

With support, some of us can get married

Just because relationships are hard, we still want to have someone special in our lives.

I have my own business

Self Advocate Speaker - I travel around TX to speak about Self Direction

I have an Art Studio and Co-op in Alpine, TX where I work everyday

I am a Health Coach with Isagenix - I help people lose weight and be healthy

I am also the organizer of the Amazing Amigos adult group and we are doing lots of fun things for adults with disabilities. www.livinmydreams.com

Self Advocacy

Self-Advocacy is standing up for yourself

The people with disabilities can make their needs and wants known.

Let us tell you our dreams

We can be Self-Directed and independent with support

I can influence people to make life better for people with Down syndrome and my friends with Disabilities

What is the Consumer Direct Option?

For People on State Health Programs who need help at home or in the community

I am in charge of my own life and I manage my own care!

I hire people I know, like my friends and family, who can help me at home or in the community and I can pay them more than they make at an agency.

I use a Consumer Direct Agency to help me with paperwork like payroll.

Please help us. . .

Spread the word about Self Direction and the Consumer Directed Service Option!

Thank you for coming today and supporting Self-Direction for al l people!

If you have questions , or would l ike me to speak to your group, p lease contact us

Joyce 432-294-4028

Becky 208-965-7373

www.alamoconsumerdirect .com