In August, Matt Beaver and Susann Rhodes from Open Door Supported Community Living (SCL) and Advocacy Committee took part in the My Life My Story – A Storytelling Workshop Series hosted by the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council (Ohio DD Council) in Morrow County. This engaging session not only focused on storytelling but also aimed to empower individuals with developmental disabilities to share their experiences, advocate for themselves, and celebrate their personal journeys.

The My Life My Story workshop, facilitated by Dr. Becca Monteleone, Assistant Professor of Disability Studies at the University of Toledo, provided participants with the skills and confidence to craft their narratives. The workshop series was designed to create a safe space for participants to reflect on their life events, advocacy experiences, and personal growth. Each session was capped at 12 participants to ensure an intimate and supportive environment, allowing everyone the opportunity to engage deeply with their storytelling.

Matt and Susann dedicated their time in the workshop to not only writing their stories but also honing their performance skills in anticipation of an upcoming event. Their workshop group took the stage on August 29th, during the Morrow County Fair. The live performances served as a culmination of their hard work and a chance to share their narratives with a broader audience.

Check out the videos provided by the Ohio DD Council of Matt and Susann at the My Life My Story – A Storytelling Workshop Series below!

Following My Life My Story, Matt and Susann were both invited to present their stories to the Ohio DD Council. They each shared their experience attending the workshop and answered questions so that the Ohio DD Council could gain a better understanding of them and what going through the workshop was like.

The My Life My Story – A Storytelling Workshop Series is more than just a storytelling event; it’s a powerful initiative that fosters personal growth and self-advocacy among individuals with developmental disabilities. By uplifting these voices, we can work towards a future that celebrates diversity and promotes inclusivity. Matt and Susann’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of storytelling, reminding us all of the strength found in sharing our stories.

“The mission of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council (Ohio DD Council) is to create change that improves independence, productivity and inclusion for people with developmental disabilities and their families in community life. The Ohio DD Council operates under the authority of the federal Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (DD Act) and is a part of the Ohio DD Network. The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities assists and supports the Ohio DD Council as the federally mandated designated state agency.” (Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council Website)