What is a Home (January)

WHAT IS A HOME

This day of reflection, discussion, and discovery will focus on one of the most important aspects of a good life -- a true home. Some of the topics that will be covered are the following: How a true home is different from a place to live; the importance of home in life, what can be done to create home with and on behalf of people who are societally marginalized, and how to deal with obstacles to the creation of a true home. The workshop will also include some inspiring stories of people who have created their own homes and the difference having a true home has made in their lives.

ABOUT THE TRAINER | DARCY ELKS

Darcy is an educator, consultant, human service evaluator, and advocate on behalf of people who are societally devalued. Darcy is also a parent of 3 children one of whom has an intellectual disability. Darcy has traveled internationally for 35 years and has worked with many different groups of people, including persons who have themselves been marginalized by society, family members, professionals from different disciplines such as teachers, psychologists, social workers, members of faith communities, and human service providers from a number of fields (intellectual disability, mental health, and aging).

The focus of Darcy’s work is to encourage development of vision, attitudes, structures, and actions which promote social value and inclusion for people who have disabilities and other people who have been devalued and excluded.  Darcy is passionate about the vision and work of creating inclusive communities:  communities where we are all welcome and where we can each use our gifts for the good of one another. Darcy's thinking and work has been very influenced by her daughter Mary's life experiences and her presentations reflect both personal and professional perspectives.

As well, Darcy was fortunate to work with Dr. Wolfensberger who is the creator of Social Role Valorization (SRV) and ideas from SRV are woven throughout her work.