Guest Column: People with disabilities are 'Just Like You'

In this world of ours, we often feel like we are just dust in the wind. Sometimes feeling like we are important to someone is what keeps us going.

The world moves fast and time passes quickly. I realize the importance in people in our community … maybe more so this month than in others. All across our nation in March, Developmental Disability Month is being celebrated. The purpose of this awareness is to help educate the general population about individuals with these disabilities and the issues that are important to them.

We as community members should know all people are people first and all have needs and rights. Every one of us wants to enjoy life, feel productive and secure in our town.

Most people have some sort of disability of one kind or another. The theme this year is “Just Like You,” because it sends a message to the community that people with disabilities go to work, school, play sports, shop and spend time with their families just like everyone else.

Imagine tapping into the talents and abilities how that would make our community a better place to live. Disability is a natural part of human experience and in no way diminishes the right of people with disabilities to make choices, contribute to society and experience in full the many blessings of our American society. And to realize those family members, friends and the community at large all play a role in supporting people with disabilities to pursue their dreams and the goals of this city we live in.

I am adviser to a group of folks called People First of Montana; they work hard to play a huge role in our community. They not only have jobs that help our economy, they also shop locally and wear a certain pride in our Libby existence. They donate funds that they raise to different agencies, without hesitation.

They are holding a fundraiser on March 27 at WASH ME car wash so that they can present a scholarship to a senior graduating this year.

I feel a sense of humbleness when I am with this group. They bring me to a level that I should be at daily, side by side, working to make our town the best place to live.

(Kandis Peterson, a Libby resident, is an adviser for the organization, People First of Montana).