Supporting Members with Significant Intellectual Disabilities

Supporting Members with Significant

Intellectual Disabilities

Here’s the secret:It’s not that big of a deal!

Nevada Program Overview

• 2002-Wrote grant for 3 VISTA members with IDD to support People First in NV (LV, Reno, Elko)

• 2004-Added 4th member (Fallon)

• 2006-up to 6 members, all with IDD; Established 5 People First chapters, statewide board, first conference

Nevada Program Overview

• 2008-grant ended & CNS approached us about taking over the state operational grant with a youth emphasis.

• In conjunction with Family TIES of NV

• 13 members in 6 locations; 5 members have IDD

• VISTA members with and without IDD working interdependently

Working Interdependently

• VISTA members with IDD are better supported as a valued member of a team instead of working alone

• While each VISTA member has their own VAD (VISTA Assignment Description), members often work together on activities.

• Example: YTP members conduct Self-advocacy training in schools. PF members often attended that school, have contacts and are good role models for the students.

Individualized Supports

Daily Activity Guide

Daily Activity Guide

Super-visors!Kari Horn

Project DirectorLavell Tyler

VISTA Leader

Members in ActionSanta & Cami at

AFP in DC

Diane with Senator

Washington

Members in ActionMartin & Santa at the 2006 People First Conference

Scott & Alex at 2009 People First

Conference

Members in ActionCarly at Partners in Policymaking

Travis at Partners in Policymaking

It’s not all work!Tiffany on the

beach Owen in love!

Tips for Successfully Engaging Members with

IDD• Regional Centers/Service Providers• Vocational Rehabilitation• People First meetings• High Schools/Transition programs• College DRC or PSE programs for

students with IDD

Tips for Successfully Including Members with

IDD• Find the right person for the job-Be

sure the member can perform the essential functions of the job with proper supports

• Having the right members without IDD is important. • Believes that each member is equal• Won’t baby the member with IDD• Won’t be someone who will feel

burdened

Tips for Successfully Including Members with

IDD• Family support is nice• Look for special talents/skills/gifts

• Knowledge of the community• Computer skills• Family • Personality

• Communication, Communication, Communication!