SELF-ADVOCACY

The mission of WRC’s self-advocacy movement is to empower all people to make life choices and to be part of their home communities. Self-advocacy groups strive to empower individuals to become active and influential members of their communities, as well as agents of change concerning their rights and wishes. At self-advocacy meetings, personal rights are discussed and individuals have an opportunity to share their experiences and concerns. Group members learn from each other and gain confidence to stand up for themselves.

Self-Advocacy Groups

There are several active self-advocacy groups in the WRC area. These groups meet at various community locations, including restaurants, malls, and community rooms. Meetings offer a great opportunity for members to make new friends and maintain lasting friendships. The frequency and duration of meetings vary depending on the group’s wishes. Attendance at self-advocacy meetings is encouraged for all individuals served by WRC.

Please contact Linda Butler, Consumer Advocacy Coordinator, for more information at (310) 258-4245 or via email at lindab@westsiderc.org.

PEER MENTOR LIFESTYLE COACH AGENCY

The Peer Mentor Lifestyle Coach Agency, Inc. is a non-profit organization that specializes in training people with developmental disabilities to serve as Peer Mentors. The unique feature of PMLCA is that Peer Mentors are responsible for training and assisting others with developmental disabilities. Peer mentors are trained to provide independent living support, mobility training, community inclusion, socialization, and healthy lifestyle coaching. Peer Mentors are responsible for training and assisting others to develop the skills necessary to live as independently as possible. Peer Mentors also provide skills training in budgeting, shopping, meal planning and preparation, household maintenance, time management, community access, mobility, self-advocacy, developing effective communication skills, and locating social and recreational opportunities.

Peer Mentor Lifestyle Coach Agency  424-331-9284 (Office Number), 213-274-4275 (Information Line)

Website : www.pmlca.org (website will be up and running this month)

Healthy Lifestyle Change Program

The Healthy Lifestyle Change program is another peer mentoring venture which was established to identify and support adults with disabilities who are at risk for or who have a diagnosis of Type II diabetes as well as supporting people who wish to develop a more healthful lifestyle. Peer Mentors, fitness, and nutrition facilitators support people to incorporate exercise and good nutrition education into their daily routines.

Networking and Life Skills Group

• Who comes to this fun group? Anyone who wants to be social and have fun!
• May I bring a friend? Of course! Bring a friend and you will also make friends at the group.
• Is there food? YES! We have tasty refreshments.
• How much does it cost to go? It’s FREE! That’s right, FREE!
• What if I’m looking for a roommate? Attend a “Networking” meeting and one of the peer mentors can assist you.