DANIEL J. PAUL

In every community, there are unsung heroes. They could be a family member, friend, neighbor and even acquaintance. Their courage, determination, and resilience are an inspiration to all of us. They bring unique perspectives and strengths to our local communities and towns. These are the individuals living with disabilities.

There is a Delta County organization, Regional Inclusive Community Coalition, whose sole purpose is to provide support for these individuals. The membership of RICC includes people who want all people, regardless of their disabilities, to have a voice in their community. The RICC provides on-going support and training, so people can be their own advocates and leaders in a community.

One such Delta County individual is 85-year-old Bonnie Champeau. Do not let Bonnie’s age fool you; she is a very active advocate for individuals with disabilities. Bonnie was born with cerebral palsy; she lived with her mother, father and six brothers until she was 16. Bonnie’s parents placed her in Newberry State Hospital. She resided there for one year. After that, she was placed into several different foster care homes. Eventually, she relocated back to Escanaba, where she resided in her own apartment for 20 years. Bonnie worked at Lakestate Industries from 1970 to 1986. After retiring, Bonnie continued to serve her community as a volunteer at St. Vincent de Paul, Goodwill and the Salvation Army.

During that span of time, she was instrumental in forming the RICC. She championed the cause of individuals living with disabilities. The goals were centered on individuals with disabilities and focused on systemic change in housing, employment, self-advocacy, and improved accessibility in concert with Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA. Bonnie has continued leading the RICC as the alternate chairperson. She continues to have contact with a range from city government officials to legislators and several governors of the state of Michigan.

The RICC is supported through Pathways Community Mental Health but does not receive any direct monies to operate. Pathways provides in-kind support and provides assistance to individuals wanting to be active members through their Individual Person Centered Plan of Service. Other agencies or groups that partner with the RICC include Aktion Club, American Legion Post 71, Bay de Noc Gobblers, Delta Area Transit Authority, Lakestate Industries, Mix and Mingle Community Events and Wheelin’ Sportsmen. RICC operates on donations and grants. The RICC has received grants from the Edward J. Charitable Sackerson Foundation and Delta County Community Foundation. Other sources for funding come from members of the RICC holding bottle return drives and brat sales.  

The RICC meetings are open, with all members participating and consistently being polled for input. Ideas and suggestions are discussed and implemented with respect being the cornerstone. This is the driving force of their decisions. Paramount to this is the promotion, advocacy and the recruitment of new members to the Delta County RICC.

Some of the suggestions that have been successfully accomplished are:  the 2013 national recognition for their anti-bullying presentation to local schools (Shred the Hate/Replace the R Word) and programs presented to local students on respecting individuals living with disabilities (RespectABILITY). During the RespectABILITY program, members of the RICC talk about their abilities–whether it be shooting a nine-point buck, having a black belt in karate, or running their own small business.

During the presentations, students are able to experience life in a wheelchair (such as attempting to play basketball), walking with a blindfold, or working with an arm tied behind their back. These examples gave the students a snapshot of experiencing what life is like walking in others’ shoes. The end result is to teach others to respect another individual’s uniqueness.

Education, community inclusion, and socialization are other key components for RICC members. The education of the public through community inclusion, visibility, and dissemination of information about people with disabilities is accomplished by various methods such as attending local parades (Independence Day, Memorial Day, and Christmas) and local municipal meetings, participating in Art in the Park, and making presentations to local schools and civic organizations.

The RICC hosts Sensory Day at the U.P. State Fair, which focuses on individuals who have sensory needs such as light and sound overstimulation. In addition, they provide educational information and soothing activities. During this time at the fair, the music and lights are turned off to accommodate the individuals with sensory needs. The RICC partners with the American Legion Post 71 to provide wheelchairs and walkers for fairgoers at the U.P. State Fair. The RICC and their partners also sponsor Re-Creating in the Great Outdoors, which provides a fully adaptive day to enjoy the great outdoors.

Organizations like the Delta County RICC are making a significant difference in the lives of people living with disabilities. They will continue to break barriers and build bridges towards more inclusive communities. I would strongly encourage all communities that would like to form their own RICC to do so. If you have questions, please contact Crystal Sarasin at 906-233-1245 or Brenda Crow at 906-233-1240.

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Daniel J. Paul is a retired school administrator. His columns focus on education, old-fashioned family values, relationships and other topics. Contact him at meaningfuldifferences@gmail.com.