ABOUT PEOPLE FIRST OF CANADA
People First of Canada is the national organization representing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
We are the national voice for people who have been labeled with an intellectual or developmental disability. We are about rights – human rights, citizenship rights, accommodation rights, and language rights. We believe in the right to freedom, choice, and equality for all.
We see ourselves as self-advocates and full citizens of our country – living equally in the community. We see ourselves as people first, and as people who have taken back control of our lives from families, policy makers and professionals such as support workers, doctors, social workers, and others, who, for far too long, made decisions for us.
People First of Canada is unique in that we are a 100% member-led organization.
OUR MISSION & VISION
PFC envisions a Canada that values diversity and honors, respects and includes all its citizens.
People First of Canada is a national non-profit organization for people with an intellectual or developmental disability. We support each other to reclaim our right to be recognized as full citizens. We do this through peer support, sharing our personal stories, developing leadership skills, advocating for our right to choose where and with whom we live, and by making sure that our voices are heard and respected.
We work together to educate and influence communities and government to ensure that all persons with intellectual disabilities are fully included and supported to live as equal citizens in Canada.
WHO CAN BE A MEMBER OF PEOPLE FIRST?
Who can be a member of People First?
People First membership is open to all people who have experienced any of the following.
- Have been labeled with an intellectual or developmental disability
- Have lived in an institution or group home
- Have attended a special education program or sheltered workshop
- Have received services for persons who have been labeled with an intellectual or developmental disability
- Self-identify as having an intellectual or developmental disability