By: Ray Simpson, Self-Advocate Associate
“I try to remember taking care of myself is ALSO how I take care of my community.” – Ray
This month for our Self-Advocacy Spotlight newsletter, we will be talking about employment. I, Ray Simpson, will be sharing how my self-advocacy journey with the Arc Minnesota helped me gain employment with them.
2023 was a difficult but hopeful year for me. The disabilities I had got from a surgery kept me from doing work I had always known. I felt lost. I asked a friend if there were support groups that helped people connect to their communities. My friend told me about the Rainbow Support Group. I joined and they gave me the chance to share my story at group homes and organizations. (Rainbow Support Group is for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are part of the LGBTQIATS+ community)
One day, the Rainbow Support Group and I came to the Arc Minnesota. I met Rebecca and Katie who are staff there. I thought, “Wow, the advocates, and staff here are so welcoming and kind. I want to keep coming back.” The Arc gave me opportunities to share my story, give feedback on projects staff created, and give my workshops. I was given stipends each time I helped. I started to see I was creating a family and positive change.
Last fall, I applied for an internship position. I thought, “This is my chance to show that the Arc is where I can help my communities.” I was hired for fall and continued my internship through spring. I felt seen and appreciated.
During my internship, I got to share my voice and creativity. I got to give workshops I created. I helped co-present with staff to colleges and organizations about the Arc Minnesota. I also write for this newsletter. By the end of my internship, I knew this work was what I wanted as a career.
It took extra effort on my part to make sure I took care of myself during my internship. My anxiety can be hard at times. When there are big changes in my life, I struggle with allowing myself to eat anything. In the past, I have had to get treatment. I now try to remember taking care of myself is ALSO how I take care of my community. It is about balance and I am worth it.
After my internship, a new position at the Arc was created. I wanted to be the new Self-Advocacy Associate. This was my shot to continue to make a difference and positive change with the people I now consider family. I applied and the interview went well. I start my new job late September and I am proud of myself.
The best advice I can give for self-advocates who want to find employment is, believe in your gifts. Keep showing up. Ask for opportunities. When we share our stories with others, we are connecting with the world around us. The Arc Minnesota is a wonderful place to share stories and find opportunities. Keep going and do not forget you are worth it.