Inside Easterseals Midwest, there’s a team quietly reshaping what advocacy looks like, not by speaking for people, but by helping people speak for themselves. At the heart of that work is Kristin Stark, the Self-Determination in Action Program Manager, who believes in something rather simple, but powerful: “Everyone has a voice. Sometimes, you just have to help them find it.”
That is a belief that drives the Self-Determination department, a program built entirely around community, shared lived experience, and the insurmountable energy of people advocating for each other…and themselves.
Rooted in Lived Experience
Kristin’s team isn’t made up of typical instructors, which is entirely the point. Every instructor teaching Self-Determination courses self-identifies as having a developmental disability.
Some have autism. One identifies as having cerebral palsy. Another has Joubert syndrome.
That authenticity (and shared connection) is what Kristin calls their power.
“They’ve been through what their students have been through. They understand it. That makes the class more impactful.” - Kristin
These instructors don’t only teach skills - they model leadership, they build trust, and they show their students that certain things are possible.
Shaping Futures with Possibility
Across various Special School District vocational sites, community programs, and partner organizations in Missouri, Self-Determination instructors teach three core courses:
My Life My Rights
A foundation of self-awareness, making choices, and learning about rights and responsibilities.
My Voice My Power
Communication, assertiveness, active listening, and learning how to speak up for themselves in real-life situations.
Our Voice Our Community
For learners that are ready to take the leap, from community change to legislative advocacy.
Kristin sees these three courses as something more than a curriculum, but as opportunities for growth. For confidence. For someone to say “This is my life. This is what I want.” And most of all, to believe it.
Built For Real People in Real Communities
Most classes are currently in-person, but the Self-Determination department is expanding. With support from Health Home, these courses are being adapted into virtual versions that can reach the entire state of Missouri, which is something Kristin believes will be a “game-changer.”
But even as it expands, the spirit will remain intact: interactive and people-first. Engaging.
“We use games, videos, activities…anything that helps people learn their way.” - Kristin
That kind of dedication to provide accessibility is what allows people from age 18 to age 72 (yes, that’s correct) to learn side by side.
More Than a Class
The Self-Determination team supports the internal heartbeat of Easterseals Midwest:
- New Hire Orientation
- DSP Training
- Peer-to-Peer Mentorship
- ISP planning support
- Empowering individuals to lead meetings
Self-advocacy doesn’t just stop when a class ends. It becomes a way of moving through life.
The Individual Engagement Committee
One of the more exciting sections of the department is the Individual Engagement Committee (IEC), which are groups of people who are looking to change how things are done around Easterseals.
They’re not just providing “feedback,” they’re shaping the future of certain services. IEC chapters currently exist in:
- St. Louis
- Kansas City
- Joplin
- Bolivar
- Springfield
- St. Joseph (brand new!)
Each chapter meets once a month, guided by the four Easterseals pillars: Innovate. Empower. Advocate. Connect.
Kristin doesn’t lead the committees. That’s something for the members themselves.
“I’m just the advisor. The instructors are mentors. The people on the committee run the whole thing.” - Kristin
If someone is eager to run their own ISP meeting for the very first time, an IEC member will go with them, help them prepare, and mentor them to succeed.
Their current project? Brainstorming new methods for people of all abilities to participate in their ISP planning, whether or not they can attend the meetings. Having a voice shouldn’t depend on a chair at a table.
Fueled by the People
Kristin has worked in this field for many years, but she says her current role is her favorite so far.
“My favorite part of my job is hearing the stories of the people we work with and helping them find their voice.”
She loves the team, whether it be the instructors, coordinator, or leaders who champion this department, even when funding may not be there. The mission itself is too important not to support.
That mission is why she believes people should join the fun at Easterseals Midwest.
“Your title might be one thing, but there are so many opportunities to do what you really love. That’s why people stay.”
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Self-Determination isn’t a program. It involves getting rid of “someone will speak for you,” and replacing it with “you can speak for yourself.”
It means letting others lead, instead of just participate. It means building community and pride. It means creating a space where every single voice matters.
Kristin and her team are doing a lot more than teaching. They’re crafting a culture. They’re shaping innovators. They’re opening a few doors that never should have been closed in the first place.
All one person, one class, and one empowered individual at a time.
This Is Just One Voice
See what's possible with the right support. Progress doesn't come from one moment... it grows through people.
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