 |
Name |
Jeffrey Skwarek |
Preferred Mailing Address |
2506 Benjamin St. NE
Minneapolis, MN 55418 |
Contact Phone |
612-789-5167 |
Fax |
612-789-5167 (call first) |
Email |
Jeffs2506@aol.com |
Education |
Graduated 1991, Humboldt High School |
Interest in developmental disabilities |
I am developmentally disabled, having been born with spastic quadriplegia Cerebral Palsy, legal blindness and the physical inability to produce speech. I was institutionalized most of my life and am now living actively in the community pursuing consumer-directed services and integration. I am most interested in lending my voice to help the service system and the community increase their understanding of persons who are developmentally disabled. I am most driven to help affect positive change for individuals with speech and language disabilities—for those who are the most voiceless and vulnerable in our community. |
Experience in developmental disabilities |
As a person with developmental disabilities, I have 32 years of lifelong experience including:
- Lived in two foster homes, four intermediate care facilities, 2 nursing homes, and most recently, two community group homes
- Attended sheltered workshops/day programs, participated in transitional skills development programs and pursued vocational placement services
- Received medical, rehabilitation, educational and case management supports
- Experienced life in the community with very limited supports for my sensory impairments
|
Anything else about yourself |
I speak with a symbol board, a new technology device and the help of an intervener. Despite the challenges that life has presented to me and my family, I still see good and positive opportunities in everything. Because of my family’s continued support and chances like this one to serve on the DD Council, I hope to help improve services into the future and to grow myself while I actively participate to help others. |
