Programs and Services

Life In Focus

What is the purpose of the “Life in Focus” project?

People with developmental disabilities will develop powerful voices. They will learn to use pictures and words to share their own stories.

Their stories will focus on advocacy issues from a personal standpoint. Policy makers and communities will see life through the eyes of people with disabilities.

What will “Life in Focus” groups members do?

• Get a camera and learn how to use it.
• Take pictures to represent issues and experiences in their daily lives.
• Discuss their photos and stories in a group.
• Learn to use the photos and stories to communicate with people in their lives, policy makers, and the community.

What will “Life in Focus” group sponsors do?

• Identify trainers who will carry out the local group.
• Recruit group members, including people from diverse cultures and with high support needs.
• Provide the training, using the “Life in Focus” package.
• Provide supports during the training.
• Support the group members in using their new skills as part of the organization’s ongoing activities.

What supports will UCP Michigan provide to sponsors?

• The “Life in Focus” Training Package.
• Train trainers (staff and consumers) of sponsors in using the model..
• Technical assistance, on ways to help people use AT to communicate and take pictures.

What results (outcomes) do you expect from the project?

A. Personal Growth – Group members will:
A.1. Learn to take pictures and tell their own stories
A.2. Be more confident in speaking up for themselves
A.3. Make improvements in their lives
A.4 Include people with the highest support needs and from diverse cultures.

B. Strong Relationships – Group members will:
B.1. Build relationships among people in the group
B.2. Strengthen relationship with family and friends
B.3. Build relationships with people in the community

C. System Change – Group members will:
C.1. Be more involved in the political process
C.2. Use pictures and stories with legislators and other policy makers
C.3. Advocate for better services for people with disabilities.
C.4. Advocate for improvement in the community.

View Videos from the Project by clicking here..

How do I get more information?

Contact Glenn Ashley, Project Coordinator for “Life in Focus”
Email: Ashley@ucpmichigan. org

For more information about Life In Focus, please contact UCP at (517) 203-1200 or send an e-mail.

http://www.LifeInFocus-UCP.org
Updated: 04/17/2009