Recently Eric spoke with Cherie about his work in self-advocacy and receiving the Helen M Bailey Advocacy Award. This is from their conversation.
Eric McVay is a long time SUFU member and a great example of a self-advocate. He works tirelessly to promote self-advocacy in order to better his life and that of his friends and peers.
On October 17th, 2024, Eric attended the 2024 Annual Celebration hosted by Disability Rights Maine in Freeport. During this event, Eric was awarded the Helen M. Bailey Advocacy Award. This award is given out to a person who shows outstanding self-advocacy and who has gone above and beyond the normal to promote a positive impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities.
In his free time, Eric is on numerous boards and a member of countless self-advocacy organizations. Here are a few of the things he participates in: Eric is a long-time member of SUFU. He is a self-advocate faculty member at Maine Lend. On the Sibling Leadership Network, you will find Eric on the board and currently acting as their treasurer. Self-Advocates Becoming Empowered, which is a nationwide group, Eric holds the spot of secretary. Coming up he will be acting as the co-director of a group, with the University of Chicago, promoting advocacy for individuals who identify as being a minority.
Eric told me it was an honor to receive such a prestigious award. He felt very grateful and appreciated that DRM chose him.
We congratulate Eric on receiving this award!
If you are self-advocate and would like to share a blog post with us please email Laurie Coldwell at lcoldwell@sufumaine.org
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