About Us
Speaking for Ourselves is an independent grassroots, self-help/self-advocacy organization run by people with developmental disabilities.
Our Mission Statement
(Adopted by the Speaking For Ourselves Board of Directors on 5/18/22)
- To eliminate institutions
- To give the opportunity for freedom and free choices
- To make sure that people are heard and listened to in any way that they can communicate
- To come together to support and help each other live fulfilling and happy lives
- To be reminded of people’s rights, and also their responsibilities
- To take political action when needed, and to respect each other’s views and their right to discuss them or to keep them private
- To be a supportive friend community
- Provide opportunities to learn new things together
- To broaden our interests
- To share life experiences
- To live an everyday and self-determined life
- To always remember who is in charge… YOU!
Board of Directors
Debbie Robinson, Executive Director
debbie@speaking.org
Rick Giovannucci, Board President
rgiovannucci@gmail.com
Thalia Dafermos. Chester County Chapter Advisor
tdafermos@gmail.com
Bill Krebs, President of the Philadelphia Chapter
bill.krebs@ymail.com
Yahannas Tabb-Bey, President of the Chester County Chapter
Lynette Savoy
lynettesavoy@gmail.com
Jim Colbert (Advisor)
Sean Outen (Advisor)
Betsy Ney
Rosa McAllister
Seeking Board Members
We are looking for new people to serve on the Speaking For Ourselves Board of Directors. The Board meets monthly via Zoom. Email Debbie Robinson, Executive Director, to learn more.