Debbie Morris knows the power of speaking up — for herself and others. Her advocacy began with the People First movement, where she helped push for accessibility improvements, including curb cuts in her neighborhood. “I have done a lot of speaking for myself and telling others that they have the right to speak out about how they feel,” she says.
Now, Debbie is bringing that experience to her new position as a Peer Support Advocate at Albertina Kerr. In this role, she will help ensure the voices of people Kerr supports are heard and included in decisions across the organization.
Debbie’s advocacy has focused on everyday rights, including the right to enjoy outings and live as independently as possible. At a recent retreat for Kerr’s residential program managers, she emphasized the importance of respecting these choices and how they impact quality of life for individuals.
“I advocate for myself so I can navigate the world independently, and if something happens, I know who to contact,” Debbie explains. “I want to answer the question: What do you do when someone tries to take advantage of you?”
A participant in Kerr’s Inclusive Day Services program in Clackamas County, Debbie also brings experience in supported employment and Day Support Activities (DSA).
“I’m looking forward to new opportunities and the chance to reach more people,” she says.
PHOTO: Debbie presenting at a Kerr Residential Services Retreat.