Empowering Individuals to Become Advocates for Themselves & Others
The mission of the Self-Determination in Action Program is to empower individuals with disabilities by teaching them about their rights, associated responsibilities, and how to achieve self-determination in their lives. Through the courses offered, participants will learn how to take control of their lives by advocating for themselves and making choices that align with their personal goals and values.
Each course uses practical examples to help participants recognize their rights in different situations, simplified explanations with printed guides, and accessible materials and activities to help participants fully understand the concepts presented.
Free Courses Available:
My Life, My Rights: This six-week course provides a foundational understanding of the basic rights of individuals with disabilities. Participants will learn about their right and associated responsibilities and how both apply in everyday life.
Topics:
- Knowing Yourself and Your Rights
- Daily Life and Employment, Community, and Healthy Living
- Social, Spirituality, Safety, and Security
- Advocacy and Engagement
Self-Determination Leadership: This course builds on the My Life, My Rights Course by covering essential laws and protections, including the Americans with Disabilities Act. The course will cover tools and strategies for setting and achieving goals, problem-solving, ways to effectively communicate, and asserting one’s rights in everyday situations, such as school, work, medical settings, and in the community.
Topics:
- History of the Disability Rights Movement & Knowing Ourselves
- Rules, Rights, and Responsibilities
- Communication and Connecting
- Problem Solving
- Leadership and Advocacy
Enrolling in Self-Determination in Action Courses:
Who can enroll?
Courses are available to anyone with an intellectual or developmental disability, age 17 or older with a desire to become more self-determined in their lives.
When and where do courses take place?
We are flexible! Organizations may schedule to host a course or individual participants may register for courses on-site at Easterseals. Our mission is to make Self- Determination courses accessible to all. Currently we are providing courses in the St. Louis Metro area, St. Louis County, St. Louis City, St. Charles County and in the Kansas City Metro area, Platte County, Buchanan County, and Clay County.
Questions?
If you're interested in learning more or enrolling, please contact our Self-Determination team at 1-800-200-2119 or selfdetermination@esmw.org.
