People First groups assist self-advocates in finding their own voices to speak for themselves, and strengthen their abilities to live as independently as possible in their communities. This is achieved through networking, educational training, and events that build social and life skills. The Southwest Region helps establish and provide ongoing support for People First groups.

At self-advocacy group meetings, members discuss community issues important to people with disabilities and learn to work as a team to solve problems. Some local group activities have included educational sessions to review the rights all people have, and group projects, like asking the local city council for better transportation for people with disabilities.

 

Groups in the Southwest Region:

  • People First of Cottonwood County
  • People First of Faribault County
  • People First of Jackson County
  • People First of Lyon County
  • People First of Mankato
  • People First of Martin County
  • People First of New Ulm
  • People First of Nobles County
  • People First of Redwood County
  • People First of Rock County

 

Search “People First” with your county and region in the events calendar.

Contact the Southwest Region

Fairmont Office

Lee Ann Erickson, Program Director

Box 674
Fairmont, MN 56031
Phone: 507.235.8580 or regional toll-free number, 800.427.2895
Regional fax: 507.235.2680

 

Mankato Office

Wilbur Neushwander-Frink, Regional Coordinator

501 South Second Street
Mankato, MN 56001
Phone: 507.345.4223 or regional toll-free number, 866.502.4082
Regional fax: 507.345.8145

Statewide toll-free number: 833.450.1494