Linda Booth
Where I Live: Fairfax County
About Me:
My name is Linda Booth, and I have been living with a disability since I was born. I do not see my disability as a weakness; in fact, sometimes it is a superpower. Why would I say that? Because I have been able to see the world from a unique place. Life does not have to be complicated. I can use the way I learn to break things down into small pieces and create a rewarding life.
Hobbies & Interests:
I have a lot of hobbies and interests. When I lived in Spotsylvania, my parents built me my own little store where I could sell my products. I love to do cross stitch, crochet, knit, and a little bit of sewing. I never got my store off the ground because it was challenging to figure out how to balance my “benefits” with income. So now, I give my work to friends and family on special occasions. I also love my “fur babies.” I have a Papillion, which in French means Butterfly, but for me, means little dog named Mr. Tokyo. Tokyo has two sisters, both cats—one named Toshi and the other Suki. (I pick Japanese names because I'm half Japanese and half American.)
Mentor Skills:
I bring a couple of skills to the role of peer mentor.
- Good listener: This is important because a lot of people do not feel like they are heard when they are sharing their thoughts or feelings. I am good because I can sit and listen, and I do not “judge” people.
- Good Planner: I am very organized. I realize that this is very important, because being a person with a disability there are lots of demands on you. I can help people prioritize what is important for them and help them stay focused.
- Know my community: Even though I have not been in Fairfax for close to 40 years, I am good at directions and figuring out what services are in my community. I can help others do the same.
- Understand the importance of budgeting and benefit management: Keeping a budget on a limited income is hard. I get some support with this as well. BUT I have learned how to prioritize my purchases and work with my support team to make good choices. This is important.
Areas of Expertise:
- Long Term Planning - Parents and self-advocates need to start planning for life when the parents are no longer able to care for themselves.
- Lots of life experience, nothing shocks me, so it is easy for me to listen and not make someone feel bad.
- Helping people with self-care — you can not take care of someone else unless you take care of yourself.
- I know my way around a house — can help people with keeping their homes in order.
- I know lots of ways to get around — I drive, I know how to use the bus, and even the Virginia Railway Express.
Open to learning new things…
Communication:
Easy to talk to and a good listener​
I work with: DD Waiver & DD Waivers Waitlist Mentees