Our vision statement: We will create individual and family supports, chosen and directed by the person with a disability

Yes, Stephanie can write her name

Most of the names in these stories have been changed to protect privacy.

Stephanie Perez was in a special kindergarten day class. Because her family members, who speak only Spanish, were worried that Stephanie's placement was not right for her, they asked Celeste Palmer to observe the class in action. Celeste, an Associate Clients' Rights Advocate, went to Stephanie's classroom.

After Celeste had been observing the class for a while, the teacher began a project that included having the children write their names. She wrote out Stephanie's name for her and had the child draw a circle around it.

When Celeste started to leave, Stephanie began to cry. Celeste went back to comfort her, and Stephanie said, "I hate school."

Although Celeste understood what Stephanie said, the teacher apparently did not.

Celeste took out a pencil and a piece of paper, and wrote Stephanie's name. Then she turned the pencil and paper over to Stephanie, who first traced the letters and then began writing them.

Her teacher and an aide looked at the paper and at each other and announced, "This is impossible. Stephanie cannot do this." But she did.

Thanks to Celeste, and to all who take the time to get to know the people we serve, miracles can sometimes happen. Who can tell what may result when people work to make sure that everyone is treated appropriately?