Always Smiling: Shante’s Story

When Shante Martin looks in the mirror, she sees a positive, caring, and outgoing person who is always willing to advocate for herself and for others with disabilities. Says Shante, “I’ve had challenges in my life but I’ve come a long way to be a person who is always smiling…I’m proud of myself.”

Shante attends Accord’s Day Supports program and works one day a week for Dakota County as Administrative Support. She particularly enjoys her friends and co-workers at both Accord and Dakota County.

In 2009, Shante became more involved in advocacy and found her calling. Shante completed Diversity and Equity Training and has served on the board of directors of Advocating Change Together (ACT). “It helps me and other people learn about their rights and the responsibilities of being a self-advocate,” Shante says about her involvement with ACT. She hopes that by continuing to share her story and perspective, that she can “be a part of something that’s really big”.