People First of Washington has a youth leadership program called Student First, where individuals with disabilities learn advocacy and life skills. Leaders and experts from the community such as Brian Nichols of Spokane County speak to the Student First membership at their yearly conference in Spokane. There, the students learn important information about transitioning to the next stage of their life, such as moving out from their home, employment or preparing for collage.
For the past two years, the Office of Developmental Disabilities Ombuds has had the opportunity to speak to these growing leaders. Tim McCue, the DD Ombuds Self Advocacy Educator, presented the first annual “Who’s the Self Advocate?” quiz at this year’s Youth Leadership Summit on January 11th. It was exciting presentation that tested and increased advocacy knowledge in a fun, interactive way.
If you or someone you know is interested in participating in Student First, contact Craig Sicilia at [email protected] or check out their website at Peoplefirstofwashington.org.
If you would like the DD Ombuds to present on advocacy to your group, contact our Self Advocacy Educator at [email protected] or call us at 833-727-8900.