Self advocates learn skills and information to help us stand up for ourselves, such as communication skills, human rights and legal rights, how laws get made, and strategies for creating change.
Self advocates create relationships that are respectful and meaningful to everyone involved. Self advocates build lifelong friendships and learn the benefits of being part of a group.
Self advocates are role models for others. Self advocates are leaders in our communities who create the changes we wish to see in the world.
Amber joined the Self Advocacy team in 2015 though she has been involved in self advocacy in one way or another since she was a young teenager. She comes to the job with her own lived experience of having a disability and is deeply passionate about creating a society that validates and celebrates differences instead of creating harmful stigmas. Amber holds a Master's in Public Interest Communication from the University of Florida. As part of her ongoing commitment to the disability rights movement Amber is currently serving on the MA Developmental Disabilities Council and the PCA Workforce Council. Her hobbies include watching movies and graphic design.
Becky joined the Self Advocacy team with experience in community-based support and research. With an academic background in Psychology and International Relations, she comes to this work with a strong commitment to social justice and to supporting self-determination by working with people rather than for them. Becky is passionate about helping individuals build leadership skills, access resources, and have their voices heard within their communities. Outside of work, she enjoys watching musicals and cooking.
James is a veteran self advocate who has been working with the Self Advocacy team for more than a decade. He brings a unique voice to the team. His skills, knowledge, and leadership abilities have made him very respected among his peers. Outside of work James is very close with his family and enjoys sports.
The theme for this year’s event is: The Legacy of Self Advocacy: past, present, and future Are you interested in acting as the Keynote Speaker and sharing your story with everyone at the conference? Do Read more…
As we wrap up 2024, we wanted to take a minute to reflect on all the great memories we made this year and celebrate or successes! West Region self advocates worked hard and accomplished a Read more…
Massachusetts West Region Self Advocacy
187 High Street Suite 303
Holyoke, MA 01040