In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Susan Parker. Susie is a self-advocate, public speaker, and and Self-Determination Instructor forEasterseals Midwest. She also serves as the President of the St. Charles Chapter of People First Missouri. She uses her voice to empower those with a disability to know their rights and advocate for change in the state of Missouri.

Resources in this episode:

• Easterseals Midwest: https://www.easterseals.com/midwest/
• People First of St Charles: facebook.com/PFSCC
• People First: https://www.missouripeoplefirst.org
• SARTAC Fellowship: https://www.selfadvocacyinfo.org/fellows/
• Missouri LEND program: https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/autism-training/tips4kids/
• Charting the LifeCourse Annual Showcase (May 2-4, 2023): https://www.lifecoursetools.com/events/showcase-2023/

Acronym Guide:

LEND: Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities

UCEDD: University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities

DSP: Direct Support Professionals

Hab-Centers: Habilitation Centers

DDRB: Developmental Disability Resource Board

IEP: Individual Education Plan

ISP: Individual Service Plan

VICA: Vocational Industrial Clubs of America

DFS: Division of Family ServicesISLA: Independent Supported Living Arrangement

Interview Transcript: https://ihd.umkc.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Transcript-SusieParker.pdf

Contact Susan Parker: susan.parker@esmw.org

For more information about UMKC-Institute for Human Development visit https://ihd.umkc.edu/