Inclusion Matters

AUGUST 2024

With a Voice Comes a Choice

Imagine for a moment that you have an inability to express yourself, or that people have a difficult time understanding you because communication isn’t your strong suit. What would life look like if the communication gap was so large that you rarely made your own decisions? How frustrating would it be if you weren’t able to live the life you wanted, mostly because of an inability to voice your wants, needs, feelings, and aspirations? For Robert White, these were not hypothetical situations, but rather ones he’s lived for most of his life. Fortunately for him, with the support of his family, the newfound supports and services Advocates has provided him, and a renewed sense of hope for the future, Robert is taking strides no one thought were possible. 

Robert, 63, embarked on a new chapter with Advocates in February, guided by his niece and Mentor, Alexis Harrington. Living in Oswego, New York with his parents, Robert is described as a deeply creative individual whose life revolves around his family. Despite facing challenges stemming from a childhood marked by limited resources, Robert's journey has been shaped by the care of those closest to him, as opposed to support from the system.

“He grew up in a very different time when there was an overall lack of understanding of people with disabilities,” Alexis told us, noting this major barrier to Robert’s success earlier in his life. But his limited verbal skills and an education cut short have posed equal or greater challenges over time. “He wants to learn things and has tried communicating for a long time, but because people have a hard time understanding him, I’ve seen people act dismissive of him,” Alexis added. With this communication gap and a lack of understanding from the general public, making choices has never come easy for Robert.

Despite these obstacles and more presented by his disability, Robert didn’t let anything stand in his way when trying to live a productive and fulfilling life. The art of sewing has been a mainstay in Robert’s life for more than three decades. What may be traced back to his mother’s hobby of crocheting, Robert began sewing crafts of his own, and then parleyed his skills into a respectable job. For years, Robert served Oswego Industries, where he crafted everything from pillows to hospital scrubs for people in need.

Though the COVID-19 pandemic meant the elimination of his position, Robert still enjoys sewing as much as he always has, and is contemplating selling his creations with Alexis’ help and guidance. The prospect of selling his work not only showcases his skills but also serves as a means to fund his passion for sewing further – a testament to his dedication and an entrepreneurial spirit no one knew existed.

Just as he aspires to apply his talents to the best of his abilities, Robert has shown a determination to communicate effectively – a big step towards independence. Since joining Advocates, Robert's progress has been notable. His Community Habilitation Coordinator, Alyssa Frantz, has seen a drastic improvement in his communication skills, among other things. 

“Bob is much more open and expressive now compared to even just six months ago,” Alyssa said. “But he’s also doing a lot more. His calendar of events is always full, and he and Alexis always have something going on.” Whether it’s leisurely activities or working on Robert’s goals, their quality time together has paid great dividends. Alexis, in her role as both Mentor and family member, has been instrumental in enriching Robert's life experiences while helping to integrate crucial skills that will benefit him now and down the road.

Robert’s progress can be marked by a recent interaction, which, to the untrained eye, isn’t noteworthy, but for those who know Robert, it was a monumental moment. While in the grocery store with Alexis, Robert greeted the sales associate with a cordial “Hello, how are you today?” His enunciation – another skill he and his niece work on – was improved, his demeanor was friendly as it always is, and the response he elicited was positive, all indicating his communication has taken leaps and bounds. Robert has shown pride in overcoming communication barriers that have plagued him for the majority of his life. This reflects a deep personal triumph, now confidently engaging with others – a testament to the depth of his character often overlooked by others.

In addition to working on his communication skills, Robert’s goals are to improve his cooking abilities, expand his social circle by meeting new friends, and continue making his own choices in life. With the support team he has in place, there is no doubting he will achieve these aspirations. “Alexis has gone above and beyond,” Alyssa said. “Anything is possible with the right team in place, and Robert definitely has that.” 

Though Alexis doesn’t do her job for praise, she acknowledges the value she brings to her uncle’s life. “It’s nice to know that I’m doing a good job, but it’s better to hear about the improvement he’s making,” she said. “He’s making progress and he’s happier now. I see it because I’m with him all the time, but it really says something for others to see it.”

In his leisure time, Robert finds joy in swimming, socializing over pizza, following baseball, traveling, and exploring new hobbies such as archery. But whatever he does, he does it knowing he has the full support of Alexis and of Advocates. For Robert, Advocates represents more than support – it embodies newfound independence and the freedom to make choices. Alexis' dedication and Robert's resilience have paved the way for a brighter future, where Robert continues to explore his passions, conquer challenges, and inspire those around him. As Robert's journey unfolds with Advocates, it serves as a reminder of the transformative power of support and the boundless potential within each of us.

Do you have a friend or family member who

would make a great Mentor?

If so, please encourage them to apply on our website.

We look forward to meeting them!

Help us save a life!

Advocates is partnering with the American Red Cross and hosting a blood drive on Wednesday, Sept. 4th from 1-6pm in the Board Room, located at 290 Elwood Davis Road in Liverpool. Though walk-ins are welcome, appointments are encouraged and appreciated.

As a bit of a "thank you" from the Red Cross, all participating donors will receive an exclusive Red Cross 3/4 sleeve raglan t-shirt, while supplies last.

We thank you in advance for considering participating in this critical mission!

We were disappointed that the weather didn't cooperate on our originally planned date in July, but we're excited to announce that we've secured a new date for Advocates' Annual Family Picnic!

We hope you'll join us at Onondaga Lake Park (Long Branch Park - 3813 Long Branch Rd., Liverpool, NY 13090) on Wednesday, Sept. 11th from 4pm-7pm! People & families receiving service from Advocates are invited to join us for food, fun, music, entertainment and an opportunity to connect with old friends and meet new ones!

Although this event is free to attend, eligible individuals must be enrolled in our FSS Recreation program in order to register.

We hope to see you there!

Join us "fore" a great way to support our mission!

Advocates' 19th Annual Golf Tournament is right around the corner, and you can participate in a number of ways to support this great cause!

On Wednesday, September 18th, Advocates will host its classic tournament at Timber Banks Golf Club in Baldwinsville. Featuring a Jack Nicklaus Design course, Timber Banks Golf Club offers immaculate grounds and a challenging layout that will keep our golfers engaged from the first tee to the last. Golfers will be treated to 18 holes of golf with cart, a golfer gift, contests, lunch, beverages on the course, networking reception, awards, an auction with many exciting packages, and a sit-down gourmet dinner overlooking the breathtaking grounds.

Not a golfer or can't make it that day? Sponsorship and donation packages are still available. These are great opportunities to promote your business while supporting Advocates in the process, as all proceeds from our tournament will benefit children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Promote your business while supporting Advocates!

Pin flag sponsorships are another way to get involved in supporting this year's golf tournament. A pin flag in golf is a flag attached to the flagstick on the green to mark the hole's location. Because every golfer encounters every hole on the golf course, they will also see every pin flag. Therefore, pin flags make for wonderful marketing opportunities!

These durable and high-quality flags will be framed and returned to you after the tournament to keep as a memento. Best of all, 100% of the proceeds from the sales of pin flags will benefit children and adults with disabilities.

Familiar face, new program

Kath Fathers, of Syracuse University's Department of Drama, has dedicated her career to helping people express themselves through music. Kath has touched many lives - including those in the Advocates community - in various ways, including by acting as an instructor for The All Star C.A.S.T. (Community Actors and Students Theater).

Kath's new program, Singing Soulutions for Neurodiverse Minds, is a 6-week program dedicated to singing for health and wellness. The course is "designed for participants to slow down, explore ways to regulate our bodies, and to meet ourselves and others through singing."

To learn more about this program or to register, please click here.