Posted on June 21, 2010 at 5:00 PM
Updated yesterday at 8:04 AM
PORTLAND, ORE. This summer marks the 20th anniversary of the American Disabilities Act. The purpose is to break down barriers to employment, physically and mentally.
That's also the mission for Portland's Full Life, helping those with development disables to express themselves though art and the media.
"I like it,it's fun," said Dustin Pack. Today is his first day shooting with a video camera.
"Getting all the stuff done showing us how they work, how they get all the books to the store and stuff like that," he said as he followed the manager of Goodwill's contract business on NE 6th Street in Portland.
Dustin is one of six clients of Full Life, here at Goodwill headquarters to document behind the scene at Goodwill.
"Full Life is a arts recreation and vocational program for adults with developmental disabilities," said Jesse Studenberg, Director of Care at Full Life.
The monthly half hour TV show is a collaborative effort to showcase the talents of those with disabilities to a broader audience.
"But, also to expose the community to the viewpoints and the interests and the lives of the people that we serve. Because it's a segment of the population that is pretty often overlooked," said Studenberg.
Everyone on the crew plays and learns a roll, from basic camera operating skills, to interviewing techniques.
Today Tracy gets to be the interviewer. She is also getting some guidance from Jesse with help for her questions.
"Hi, I'm Tracy, what's your name? Tracy's getting ready to interview Steven. He is developmentally disabled and has been working at Goodwill for years. "I am the very best sorter they've ever seen" noted Steven.
The TV show documents what the American with Disabilities Act, now nearly 20 years old, is suppose to do, provide those with disabilities employment in order to contribute in a meaningful way.
"I think that my clients perspective on life is something that everybody could learn a lot from", said Studenberg.
The Full Life, episode at Goodwill air on Portland Community Media on Comcast, July 16th at 7:30pm.
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