Self Advocates in Action
On June 17, 2026 the IRI Board welcomed three representatives of IRI's Self-Advocacy Group: Ana Fred, Past Self-Advocate President, Jason Scalzo, Self-Advocate Vice President, and Kimberly Wilson, Self-Advocate Representative. They attended the board meeting in their capacity as representatives of individuals receiving services throughout the agency and provided input regarding the priorities, interests, concerns, and recommendations of individuals supported by IRI. They were accompanied by Matthew Kopetz, Recreation Coordinator, who supports the agency's self-advocacy initiatives.
The self-advocates reported on feedback gathered through Self-Advocacy Group meetings and discussions with peers receiving services. They shared that individuals supported by IRI value opportunities for community inclusion, recreation, employment, social engagement, and personal growth. They discussed participation in sporting events, community activities, tennis programs, poetry and art programs, and other community-based experiences available through IRI's residential and day services.
The self-advocates expressed that individuals receiving services are highly satisfied with opportunities for community participation and the support they receive from staff. They reported that individuals value positive relationships with peers and staff and feel respected, included, and supported in achieving their personal goals.
As part of their organized input to the Board, the self-advocates identified several priorities for consideration, including increasing access to tennis and other recreational programs, identifying employment opportunities, and exploring opportunities to reinstate agency-wide social events, including a gala celebration. They noted that such events promote socialization, recognition of accomplishments, self-confidence, and community connection among individuals receiving services.
Board members (particularly Mr. Gael Monteil and Dr. Sharon Simmonds) engaged in discussion with the self-advocates regarding these recommendations and thanked them for representing the perspectives of individuals supported by the agency. The Board acknowledged receipt of the input and discussed how the identified priorities align with IRI's mission, strategic goals, quality improvement efforts, and commitment to self-determination, community inclusion, and person-centered supports. Dr. Simmonds highlighted some of her plan to help with access to tennis opportunities, coaching and equipment.
The Board reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining an ongoing mechanism for obtaining and considering input from individuals receiving services through the Self-Advocacy Group and its representatives. The Board directed agency leadership to consider the recommendations shared by the self-advocates during future program planning, quality improvement activities, and strategic discussions and requested that updates regarding these priorities be provided at future board meetings.
