Meet InControl Wisconsin Board Chair, Kate Norby.  As a firm believer in self-determination, she really enjoys her career of helping people bring self-determination into their lives in whatever way it makes sense to them.  She’s thrilled with how the notation of self-direction has taken off in Wisconsin.  Kate loves that there’s a community of people who believe in self-determination as much as she does, and she encourage others to spread word about the Network.  We’re so fortunate to have her as a member of the Self-Determination Network. 

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

Kate has always believed that people should have control of their own lives and thinks of self-determination as something that applies to everyone.  “Many people take it for granted and don’t realize that there are people out there who don’t experience the same freedom to live their lives that others enjoy,” she explains.  In her work, she’s passionate about helping people build self-determination into their lives in whatever way makes sense to them.  This includes choosing where to live, who to live with, where to work, and who supports them, among other things.  She believes that if we don’t build communities where everyone experiences self-determination, we don’t truly have community.

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

Kate has enjoyed watching self-direction take off in Wisconsin’s adult long term care programs.  She explains that people planning for self-direction in Family Care and IRIS underestimated what a popular choice it would become.  “I’m not surprised--I’m energized,” she exclaims!

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

Kate encourages people who want to be more self-determined to start by getting good information, and if something doesn’t make sense, keep asking questions.  She explains that, “you may need to get information from a variety of sources to fully understand what your options and the possibilities are.”  She says not to give up if you get discouraged--just find someone you trust to help you through it.

What message would you like to share with the members of the SD Network?

Kate is very thankful there is a community of people who care about self-determination as much as she does, and she wants to thank everyone for joining the Network.  She encourages Network Members to let others know it’s out there and find ways to encourage them to join!

What are some of your hobbies?

While Kate isn’t working, she has a very rich family life which keeps her very busy. She also tries to find time to read, meditate and connect with others which helps her expand her perspective and keeps her going on a day to day basis.

***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.