Meet Mary Sykes. As a strong advocate for people with disabilities, Mary is very passionate about person-centered planning. She has been involved in numerous disability organizations over the years, and full-heartedly believes in self-determination for all people. Learn more about Mary in this months Member Spotlight.

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

Ive been connected to people with developmental disabilities and the disability rights movement in one way or another since my high school days (which were many years ago!) as a member of Youth-ARC; as a citizen advocate; as a program coordinator for Citizen Advocacy; as a member of and volunteer with the Arc in Dane County; and as a PATH facilitator since 1997. (PATH is one of many person centered planning tools.) Currently, a colleague and I are developing a consulting business that would offer training and support in relationship and community building with and for people with disabilities. Since March of 2014, Ive also worked for Disability Rights Wisconsin, part time, as a training coordinator for the Disability Benefit Specialists program there.

The principles of self-determination have always made sense to me. I remember hearing Tom Nerney speak about self-determination this was many years ago but I still remember the goose bumps elicited by his stirring words, his call for justice, dignity and freedom. Self-determination, for me, is inextricably linked to relationship and belonging independence, for any of us, is not possible without interdependence. None of us can be our best and most powerful selves without love and support and help.

I joined the SD Network because I want to connect with like-minded people! I love that Network members hail from a wide variety of backgrounds and life circumstances, and from all parts of Wisconsin. I was particularly drawn to the Person-Centered Facilitators group because of my work as a PATH and inclusion facilitator.

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

The strong and passionate response to the threats to IRIS and other resources posed by the Governors budget proposal has been inspiring and the fact that its had a positive impact gives me hope.

I am privileged to witness individuals and groups articulating their dreams and creating action plans in the service of a bright and shining future and I know this is happening all across this state! I see people continuing to learn about person centered planning and striving to use those tools in a meaningful way. I am inspired by people thinking outside the box, being creative in their thinking and action, coming together to support someones vision for a better life. I am inspired by people with disabilities sharing their dreams and gifts and talents. Truly, we are better together!

What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to direct their own supports, or who would want to be more self-determined?

Dont give up if something doesnt work, look for another way. Our best resource is one another think outside the box in terms of whos in your corner, who your people are. Sometimes the best ideas come from unexpected sources!

These words come to mind please substitute for God whomever/whatever has meaning for you (this has been attributed to Nelson Mandela but may actually be the words of Marianne Williamson):

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are younotto be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.

What message would you like to share with themembersof the SDNetwork?

It would be the same as above dont lose hope. Dont hold back. And take care of yourself do what you need to do to feed your mind, body and spirit.

What's your dream vacation?

I recently returned from one of my most favorite spots on earth the North Shore of Lake Superior. Being there with my sweetheart, my spouse. Just sitting on the rocks by those big, expansive, wild, beautiful waters. Hiking on the Superior Hiking Trail. Having dinner at The Angry Trout caf in Grand Marais. We are already scheming about when we can go back!

***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.