October 2023: It’s not about you. It’s about us.
Too often, people with disabilities are thought of as only having problems, and these problems can only be met by paid and highly trained professionals such as therapists, social workers, special education teachers, or licensed aides.
Paid service providers can and do play an important role in a person’s life. However, without relationships that are motivated by love and driven by common sense, people with disabilities are kept in the “forever a client” role — forever seen for what they need and not for what they contribute.
The formal service model says to the person with disabilities, “It’s all about you.”
Do For One says, “It’s not only about you. It’s about us.”
See below for two stories about Advocates who lead very different lives and neither of them have a background as paid service providers.
It's not about you.
It's about us.
Pictured: Christie Ray (left) and Allison (right) celebrate Allie’s birthday with flowers and cake.
“Many of my friends in the city share similar worldviews and lead similar lives to mine when it comes to work, travels, and community. Allie and her aide are constantly teaching me new ways to see the world and experience joy and friendship.””
Christie Ray (Advocate) entered Allie’s life (Partner) shortly after Allie was orphaned when her mother unexpectedly passed away. With homemade desserts in hand, Christie Ray, Allie, and Allie's aide enjoy catching up over tea. Allie is known to lead them in song and dance.
Christie Ray is a marketing consultant.
Allie is a song and dance leader.
Pictured: Matthew (left) Phillipp (right, speaking at Matthew’s memorial service.)
“This is not a project to me. I want you (Matthew) to know that. We’re gonna walk this journey together. We’re not just gonna meet at church, we can go out for meals. This isn’t a volunteering on Sunday thing to me. This is a life thing.”
Phillipp (Advocate) and Matthew (Partner) attended the same church. The invitation to Phillipp was to become a mentor to Matthew. Phillipp walked alongside Matthew truly to the end of his life. Matthew passed away in September of 2022 after 35 beautifully lived years on earth.
Phillipp is a drummer.
Matthew was a worship leader who changed the lives of many.
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Do For One addresses the need for advocacy for those who lead lives of isolation, having none or few friends or supporters to represent their interests.
GIVE MONTHLY: Any amount ($10, $20, etc.) makes a big difference for a small, grassroots organization like ours.
$40 per month covers travel for Do For One staff to recruit Partners living in isolation in nursing homes in their efforts to recruit a voluntary Advocate.
$100 per month covers food for a monthly community gathering where relationship matches are supported and made all year round.
