Mental Health Client Blossoms Into Disability Rights Advocate
The Challenge
Tracey is a shining example of how mental illness does not have to stand in the way of one’s dreams. In 1993, shortly after moving to Oregon, Tracey sought help for post-traumatic stress disorder at ShelterCare’s Royal Avenue program for people experiencing a mental health crisis. Ten years later, while a resident of ShelterCare’s Hawthorn Apartments program, Tracey proudly received her Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Oregon.
The Solution
When Tracey first came to ShelterCare, she felt afraid and powerless. Visiting ShelterCare’s Royal Avenue program on several occasions helped her to feel safe, supported, more relaxed, and able to continue with her studies. After living without support in Section 8 housing for a few years, Tracey decided she needed more stability and support in her daily life. In 1997, she moved into ShelterCare’s Hawthorn Apartments where staff help adults with mental illness to live at a high level of independence. Tracey feels she could not have reached her goal of earning a Ph.D. without the support of ShelterCare staff, who she describes as her “cheerleading squad." She says she was consistently amazed by how often they would take the time to listen to her talk about school topics or to read and critique her papers. When Tracey felt she just couldn’t do it anymore, the ShelterCare staff's encouragement kept her going. Thanks to their help, in June of 2003 she walked across the University of Oregon stage to receive her Ph.D.
The Outcome
Tracey has committed her life to fighting for the rights of individuals with disabilities. In the past few years, Tracey has started and led a task force called Violence and Abuse in the Lives of Individuals with Disabilities (VALID), a group that fosters collaboration among community resources to end violence against those with disabilities. Tracey also serves on several committees and councils at both the state and local level, and travels nationwide to speak at conferences and conduct focus groups around issues of trauma, mental health, violence, and disability. She strives to be a part of even more peer-led services as one of the leaders in helping those with disabilities do more for themselves and others. Tracey feels fortunate to have had ShelterCare as an important part of her life. Staff at Hawthorn have enabled her to be self-reliant and self-confident by encouraging her to do things for herself. Tracey feels the staff are excellent at encouraging clients to participate and thrive in the community. “My life is a big improvement,” Tracey says, “and I owe a lot of it to ShelterCare.”
The Organization
ShelterCare’s mission is to shelter and support families and individuals, providing each an opportunity to live the fullest life possible in an environment that fosters well-being and success. The agency serves homeless families, adults disabled by brain injury, and adults with severe, persistent mental illness.
more about the organization