Newsletter Feb 2023

February 2023

People First Conference Menu Approved

The People First of WV Advisory Board met in Charleston following the Disability Advocacy Day Training sponsored by the Fairshake Network. During the meeting the board approved the menu for the 30th Annual People First Conference. Click Here for the menu. The board also discussed leisure time activities, and shirts for the conference. There was concern that the typical shirt vendor doesn’t carry tie-dye shirts in all sizes that are needed. Final vote on the style of the shirt will be held at the Mid-Year Training in May. Board members also discussed and approved the Lewis County Volunteer Fire Department bringing their fire safety house and their fire department dog during leisure time to go along with the class on fire safety.

Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships

February 14th is Valentine’s Day. How can you tell if your relationships in your life are good or bad for you?

What makes a healthy relationship?

Relationships in your life need love, care, and respect for them to be healthy for you. These relationships don’t have to be romantic for them to be unhealthy. What signs can you look for that the relationship is a good one for you? Well, here are some signs; you have good communication, there is trust and honesty, you are able to problem solve, you respect yourself and the other people involved, and you are your own person while having this relationship.

Spread awareness about how to tell the difference in relationships!

Have your People First group discuss relationships whether they be romantic or not. Find out if there are any events in the area and go as a group. Or have a therapist or a professional speak about relationships.

Click Here for more information healthy vs. unhealthy relationships.

Legislative Matters Now! with M&M!

Legislative Matters NOW! with M&M is a monthly program where Melissa Southall and Morgan Spice discuss legislative issues that matter to people with disabilities. It could be a bill that needs passed or explaining a bill that did pass or even changes to the state constitution. The show also features an Advocate in Action. That person could be advocating for themselves or they may be a family member or agency staff who tells their story of advocating so that people with disabilities can live a more independent life. New shows premier on the last Wednesday of each month at 10:00 am on the People First Facebook page or you can see an archive of past shows on the People First youtube page that you can get to by clicking HERE.