Have you watched these films and read these stories and thought, "I want this for someone I know"?
We understand that the stories we share are extraordinary. However, in a perfect world, they wouldn’t be. We recognize that various obstacles can make these types of stories seem unattainable for many people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The widespread perception of disability as something to conquer or fix diminishes the value of people living with intellectual disabilities, as well as those who pursue careers in Developmental Services. This perception also negatively affects the attitudes and behaviors of individuals, organizations, and governments.
We understand that many people are overwhelmed and exhausted from confronting these barriers, making the idea of taking action seem daunting. Yet, collective action is powerful. Therefore, we’ve created this advocacy page to offer tools and guidance to make taking action more manageable for you.
Some Concrete Steps
You Can Take:
1. Organize a screening and discussion in your community
We believe that sharing the message of A New Story can make an impact. It’s important to note that we recommend hosting in-person and virtual screenings of the films to encourage constructive community-building discussions, and collective problem solving. Whether you’re an organization, a company, a collective, or just a group of interested people, we’re here to assist in organizing such an event. Ideally, we aim for these stories to resonate beyond the disability advocacy sphere and reach a broader audience for a more profound impact. Therefore, we suggest considering an event format that appeals to your larger community. Let’s discuss how we can assist you in setting this up.
Request a screening:
(Virtual or in-person)
We will make it easy for you to host a screening in your community either at a public event or privately within your group or organization, in person, or virtually. Films are available for screening as a series or individually, and the producers are available for Q&A’s, and/or to help organize panel and group discussions. Contact us for more information.
Comments From Viewers:
It's eye opening! [Kirby's House]
Susan Popper
Family Support Network, Newmarket/Aurora
I could never have imagined [my own child] would live alone before seeing this movie.
Kirby's House Virtual Screening Attendee
Upcoming Events:
3. Promote an independent, self-directed support model
In Ontario, many people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are seeking greater autonomy and control over their lives are opting to hire their own independent support workers instead of relying on agencies or organizations. This approach allows people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to choose their support workers and schedule assistance according to their needs, whether at home, work, or in the community.
Funding sources like Passport, Direct Funding, and Family-Managed Home Care enable people to manage their lives in a person-centred way, enhancing flexibility and decision-making.
Although there are inherent risks, many find this option necessary due to dissatisfaction with agency care that often includes congregated and segregated living and programs. However, independently managing a Person-Centred Plan of support requires extra effort, as families must often handle tasks such as hiring and scheduling without professional assistance.
Despite competitive pay, families struggle to find Planners and Facilitators who share their vision of a good life to help manage things, and there is also a shortage of Independent Support Workers. Many people seeking meaningful employment may not realize the opportunities available for a fulfilling career in Developmental Services, without the need for specific post-secondary diplomas or degrees: Independent contractors who are self-employed choose where and with whom they wish to work, with flexibility in the type of work they wish to perform.
Big changes to developmental services are certainly needed but unlikely to happen in the near future. In the meantime, you might consider hiring someone who can help with Person-Centred Planning or day-to-day community participation and contribution. Or spread awareness about self-directed support models by sharing something on social media to spark conversation in your community:
Share these captions on social media to generate discussion and raise awareness ( add a photo for more engagement, and include a link to our website and use the hashtag #anewstory ):
- Did you know that as an Independent Support Worker, you get to be your own boss? You can choose when you work and who you work with! You can create a schedule that fits your life, and you’ll have more time for yourself and the things you love.
- Did you know that being an Independent Support Worker is meaningful? You’ll make a big difference in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities every day. Helping others can help you discover your own strengths. You’ll learn a lot about yourself, like how patient and understanding you can be. And you’ll feel good knowing that your work makes a big difference in the world.
- Did you know that as an Independent Support Worker you can build really strong friendships with the people you support? It’s not just about helping them; it’s about forming deep connections based on trust and respect. You’ll learn new things and become a better version of yourself.
- Did you know that as an Independent Support Worker you’ll be part of an amazing community? You’ll join other people who are passionate about supporting those with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live their best lives.
Share these captions on social media to generate discussion and raise awareness ( add a photo for more engagement, and include a link to our website and use the hashtag #anewstory ):
- Plans to support someone with a disability should focus on what they’re good at. It’s about making plans based on what they do best, instead of putting them in groups with other people who have disabilities because it may be convenient. By paying close attention as they grow and change, we can find ways for them to join in with others and do things they enjoy in the community. People in the community can be good examples, teachers, and friends. By spending time with others who share our interests, we can make strong friendships and feel more protected. Truly fitting into the community means more than just being there. It’s about taking part in community activities, having important roles, and doing things that help others. This makes our community richer and more exciting for everyone.
- Did you know that it’s important for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to have a say in decisions that affect them? When we make choices together, it helps us to better understand and support each other. Even everyday choices are important. We all have things we can and can’t do, but each person needs to have a say in how their life goes.
Utilize and support these great organizations and resources
Stories have the unique power to move us.
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Support this project:
With financial support from generous supporters we have completed the production of the films and stories you see on this page, along with the website itself and advocacy tools. Now, we are now raising money to fund continued outreach and distribution for A New Story, in order for the project to make the biggest impact and reach the widest audience possible. We have some great momentum with the launch of this project and website, and we need to continue the momentum.
To make a simple, quick NON-tax deductible donation, please follow THIS LINK to donate.
We are deeply thankful to our donors who have given so generously to this project. A New Story is an independent production and relies heavily on the support of individuals like you. Please consider donating so that more people can experience it!