Award Winning Possibilities Video Series from MI UCEDD Adds Two New Stories

June 24, 2013

The Developmental Disabilities Institute (MI UCEDD) has added two videos to its award-winning Possibilities series. The series now contains six, 5-7 minute videos depicting the lives and accomplishments of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, highlighting how self-determination and community inclusion can benefit persons with and without disabilities. The videos are intended for anyone interested in making the lives of individuals with disabilities as fulfilling and worthwhile as possible.

The first of the new videos profiles Karen, a young woman with Williams Syndrome, who attends school at Cesar Chavez Academy in Detroit. Karen takes classes with her peers and works with a paraprofessional in the classroom. Her story illustrates the benefits of inclusion and how the positive impact of inclusive educational practices can touch the lives of all who take part in just one person's accomplishments.

The second new video highlights the lives of Bjorn, Danny and Tom who are young men with intellectual disabilities and roommates living in Charlevoix, Michigan. Their stories exemplify the benefits of self-determination, team work, and how a community can come together to affect positive change in the lives of persons with and without disabilities. Their story also shows how a parent's vision for their children can become a reality through hard work, planning, and collaboration.

In November of 2012, Avalon Films of Royal Oak, Michigan was selected to receive the TASH Positive Images in the Media Award for its work on the production of the Possibilities video series. This recognition is a testament to the power and positive impact that Possibilities continues to have on those who experience the stories of the remarkable individuals depicted in the series. The hope is that more materials and tools like the video series are created and made available to parents, educators and individuals with disabilities throughout Michigan and the country so that they may more effectively advocate for the lives that they truly want.

Possibilities presents a vision held by DDI Director, Dr. Barbara LeRoy, and shared by anyone striving to maximize the lives and potentials of all persons with disabilities. The message is that anyone can achieve their ideal life through support and self-determination. DDI is dedicated to promoting inclusive communities and enriching the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families.

All videos in the Possibilities series are offered free of charge online at http://ddi.wayne.edu/possibilities.php or on a DVD containing all six videos. To request copies, contact Michael or visit the DDI website.