Self-Advocate Spotlight - Look at the Good!
Joy is powerful. It helps us stay strong, connected, and hopeful. As the holiday season approaches, we’re celebrating the moments that brought smiles and strength this year. We asked several self-advocates from Uniting for Change to share what has brought them joy in their lives in 2025. For each person we asked:
- What brings you joy?
- What is something you are grateful for or that has brought you joy this year?
- What are some good surprises that happened to you this year?
Susan Berch, Atlanta, GA
Joy
What brings me joy is spending time with my dog Gabby, my family, and friends; attending Jewish events with my synagogue, Congregation Bet Haverim & Friendship Circle; traveling; attending the Uniting for Change Retreat once a year; sunshine; and attending Broadway shows at City Springs Theater.
Gratitude
I am extremely grateful that I am able to walk without assistance after an accident I had in Greece in 2024.
Good Surprise
I received a Champion of Inclusion award at the Tasting Experience from my job at Jewish Family & Career Services on May 1, 2025. I was very honored to have received this prestigious award. Michelle, Katie, Sunil, Julie, and Gillian attended this event. I was also asked to speak at the National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) in Macon, GA on October 28, 2025.
Kristian Sherman, Albany, GA
Joy
What brings me joy is helping in the community.
Gratitude
When I received the Dottie Adams Ambassador of Light Award.
Good Surprise
Being told that I am a keynote speaker at my church charity.
LJ Young, Atlanta, GA
Joy
What brings me joy is spending time with my girlfriend and advocating for people with disabilities.
Gratitude
Being able to move out of the group home and into an apartment with my girlfriend. Also, being able to go to more advocacy conferences and meet more people.
Good Surprise
The best thing to happen this year is being accepted into Participant Direct.
Fonda Davis, Dawson, GA
Joy
Being around my church, friends, and family.
Gratitude
I’m grateful for being here with family and friends who are special to me.
Good Surprise
When my nephew came home for the Fourth of July. That made me like a very supportive auntie.
Sheila Jeffrey, Atlanta, GA
Joy
Advocating for people with disabilities brings me joy. Also, being able to work has brought me joy over the year because I’ve been able to volunteer and help in different meetings and groups.
Gratitude
Being very independent and able to say what I want and get what I need when I ask.
Good Surprise
In the last year, my man was able to move out of his group home into my home, so we now live together.