Open People Peer Group

What is Open People?

Open People is a peer-to-peer group named and operated by adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. The purpose of the group is for CCM customers to come together in a safe environment to overcome barriers, build confidence, and encourage self-advocacy through communication, teamwork, and problem solving – all while having fun and forming friendships.

The purpose of Open People is to break down barriers to inclusion in the community and to help our customers develop lasting relationships with one another and with others in the community.

CCM has an Open People group in each county that we serve: Coos, Curry, Douglas, and Klamath.

Opportunity

Open People provides customers opportunity to:

  • Connect and build lasting friendships
  • Grow confidence and self-advocacy
  • Problem solve and address barriers
  • Participate in life enriching activities and educational opportunities
  • Share interests, skills, and talents

Leadership & Advocacy

Open People provides a place for customers to find their voice and learn how to advocate for themselves.

Through Open People, customers are able to identify and address barriers to community inclusion, such as literacy, health & exercise, safety, and social barriers.  Customers have even been able to take their concerns to the Capitol to advocate for themselves.

Educational Opportunities

Open People provides the forum for education. At the request of customers, and for educational purposes, Open People has hosted a variety of community agencies and members to lead educational classes for the group.

Some classes offered have been cooking and nutrition classes, safety awareness and first aid, self-defense, money management, legal aid, and many more.

Community Outreach

Open People provides opportunity for customers to give back to their community. Open people has hosted can food drives, winter clothing drives, made Thank You cards for local police and fire departments, participated in park clean ups, and more.

Connect

Douglas:

Meets 3rd Monday of each month
Mendi Harnish – Open People Coordinator
541.672.9140

Coos:

Meets 4th Thursday of each month
Erika Nichols – Open People Coordinator
541.266.8499

Klamath:

Meets 3rd Friday of each month
Cecilia Silcox – Open People Coordinator
541.882.4449

Curry:

Tera Fox – Open People Coordinator
541.266.8499