This presentation is part of the Wise series, "Learning From Our Best Teachers."

Jeff Grace has worked for Washington Developmental Disabilities Administration for many years and has provided support services for individuals with developmental disabilities.  He has the unique perspective of also receiving disability Services as he experiences Cerebral palsy. 

Jeff has lived the ups and downs of becoming part of the community in both the residential and vocational arenas.   He is a powerful example of the importance of opportunities for individuals in the community.  Jeff will use his inspiring life experiences to help us develop better empathy for the individuals we support and offer insight into  how to provide better support services both residentially and vocationally.

Learning objectives:

• Give participants the opportunity to experience what individuals with disabilities go through on a day-to-day basis
• Give participants information on how to open opportunities for people they serve to become a contributing part of the community.
• How to use empathy to better understand the individual and to provide a person centered approach to services.
• Develop strategies to encourage a more inclusive community
• Understand the barriers that still exist for many people with disabilities