Asotin County’s Bridges to Inclusion Connection presents an inspirational presentation “Reaching My Own Greatness: Self-Determination.” Resa Hayes, self-advocate and Community Educator for People First of Washington (PFOW), shares her story on April 12 at 3:30pm at the Valley Community Center, 549 5th Street in Clarkston.
The free presentation is based on a 9-week, Self-Determination curriculum developed at a retreat by Resa, and many others, for people who need help with their lives. Each chapter builds on the others. Resa will present the first two chapters, “What is Self-Determination?” and “Who am I?” “We want to get people talking and thinking about what they want and how they’re going to get it,” says Resa. “You will never be the same after you take this training.”
Resa has been a volunteer and self-advocate for many years, serving on a variety of state and local boards and committees. Her goal is to raise awareness and educate the public that people with (dis) abilities have the right to be equal and respected citizens in their communities. “We have the right to work, live, have fun, make friends, take risks, and learn to speak up for ourselves,” says Resa. “Every person should have the right to make their OWN informed choices, regardless of their abilities.”
Resa has been employed with PFOW since 1992. As a community educator for PFOW, Resa works with members one-on-one. She checks in on them and helps them further develop their own self-advocacy skills. She leads this, and other trainings, and is readily available to give input to colleagues and the general public.
The purpose and mission of People First of Washington is to assist all people to realize and appreciate that we are PEOPLE FIRST and our disabilities are secondary. Find out more about People First at peoplefirstofwashington.org.