VITA's Rights Group Advocating for
Inclusion and Change

Empowering individuals with disabilities to advocate for their rights and create meaningful change within Vita and the broader community.

Our Purpose

Since 2006, we've influenced positive change at VITA, including the shift from calling individuals "clients" to "members."

How We Operate

Meetings are supported by two helpers who assist with setup and elected positions.

Leadership Structure

Elections are held every two years for roles such as President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Board Liaison.

Board Representation

A Rights Group member serves on VITA's Board of Directors, providing updates and ensuring our voices are heard.

The Rights Group meets regularly to discuss issues related to living with a developmental disability and ensuring people with developmental disabilities receive the rights they deserve.

The group provides input to Vita and reports to the Board of Directors.

What is the Rights Group?

How we Ensure a Safe and Respectful Environment

Meeting Guidelines

Speaking one at a time, respecting each other's rights, staying on topic, and maintaining confidentiality. No food or drinks are allowed except for cookies and diet soda to accommodate those with food concerns. Phones must be on silent and used only for emergencies.

Member Participation

Members now contribute to staff orientations, interviews, and decision-making processes.
We follow group rules to create a comfortable space for all members.

A Rights Group member serves on VITA's Board of Directors, providing updates and ensuring our voices are heard.

Representation

VITA Members’ Bill of Rights

Personal Autonomy

The right to make a decision and change your mind. The right to express all of our feelings. The right to say what's on your mind and to disagree with staff, therapists, etc. The right to choices.

Employment & Financial Rights

The right to work. The right to get paid. The right to spend our money as we choose.

Community Inclusion

The right to go to the community and prove that you are able to; the right to review restrictions on access to the community. The right to be treated respectfully in the community. The right to tell the truth in court when a crime has been committed against us.

Living & Lifestyle

The right to watch what we want on TV. The right to be part of the discussion as to where we live. The right to stay up at night. The right to shelter. The right to privacy. The right to attend scheduled activities.

Relationships & Respect

The right to be treated respectfully by staff. The right to relationships: friends, husbands/wives, boyfriends/girlfriends. The right to be treated equally. The right to visit family.

Support & Services

The right to an education. The right to treatment. The right to learn about personal power and how to use it every day. The right to have our decisions respected and backed by VITA. If necessary, a meeting with our family will be held. The right to call the police when we're being threatened (unless it is a treatment issue).