Posted on April 9, 2021
April is National Volunteer Month, and we’re excited to share some Q&As featuring our Volunteer Advocates.
Tina Chan Sweenie, our Manager of Volunteer and Donor Engagement, caught up with some of Penn-Mar’s incredible advocates to learn a little bit about them and why they’re so passionate about amplifying the voices of the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) community. You can also learn more about Penn-Mar’s advocacy efforts here.
Today we’re highlighting Bryan Barry, self-advocate . . .
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself . . .
A: Hi, My name is Bryan Howard Barry. I am going to be a YouTuber and I have a podcast on Spotify. I am making a content house for my YouTube channel; it is going to be a log cabin.
Q: What do your DSPs mean to you?
A: I love my DSPs because they take me on trips. They are important because if I fall down, they are there for me. They are here for me when I need help.
Q: What would life without DSPs be like?
A: I would not be making videos for YouTube about my life. I am involved with Voices of Change [a Penn-Mar self-advocacy group that meets once a week]. I was the President of the group.
Q: How do you advocate for yourself?
A: Get your voice heard on the internet. It has been more important to tell my story, to listen to your heart, your dreams and God. Just pick up your camera and listen to God.