Meet Jennie. This incredible self-advocate enjoys attending advocacy conferences. She’s learning about supported decision making and the freedom that it gives her. She encourages people to be satisfied with who they are. We’re so fortunate to have her as a member of the Network! 

What's your story?  Tell us a little bit about yourself,

Jennie is originally from Milwaukee, WI, but she lives in Ozaukee County.  She’s 25 years old and works at Panera Bread. She usually helps with prepare food and get it to customers. She tells us that she enjoys working there because the staff is friendly.

How are you involved with self-determination? Why did you join the SD Network?

 Jennie has participated in several self-advocacy meetings and conferences over the years. She’s been involved in things like the Youth Summit and the Independence First events where learned a lot about self-advocacy. Currently, she’s learning more about supported decision-making and guardianship. “It's a long process, but I'm slowly learning about those things,” she says. She likes supported decision making because nobody can take advantage of her. “They can’t take my freedom away,” she tells us.  She involved with self-determination because my mom and her supporters are teaching her about it. She also joined the virtual conferences, and it was worth the experience. She explains that she didn't enjoy them because it was totally new for her, but, after awhile, she finally got used to them. She joined SD because she wanted to learn more about making her own decisions and avoid having a guardian. 

Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in term of self-determination?

The most exciting thing for Jennie is that she has been able to join in-person conferences during the springtime and practice her speaking skills.

She’s also excited that she was able to participate in a couple of videos on the Self-Determination YouTube Channel. 

What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?

Jennie encourages self-advocates is to be themselves, be satisfied, and be proud of who them are. “Don't ever feel disappointed or ashamed of your abilities,” she says.

Another thing Jennie encourages people to do is to take your time and ask for help whenever need it.

What are some of your hobbies?

 Jennie enjoys doing things like  singing, dancing, reading, writing, coloring, and watching TV/movies. Her favorite TV shows are Dancing with the Stars, American Idol, and the Ellen Degeneres Show.

 ***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.