Disability Action Center NW, Inc.

New DAC Staff Biography:
Steve Corr
Contact Steve

“When your ability to succeed is greater than your fear of failure, you’re making progress.” That is an all-time favorite quote of Steve Corr, the newest member of DAC’s team. Although he started working for DAC as an Independent Living Advocate just weeks ago, Steve has already demonstrated his commitment and determination. One of his first tasks with DAC was to help lead a presentation at Washington State University on the history of the Independent Living Movement (our director, Mark Leeper, was not available, as he was lobbying at the Capitol). Although it was a somewhat last-minute endeavor, we were much impressed—as was the WSU audience—with Steve’s confidence and leadership.

Steve spent the first 12 years of his life on a farm in eastern Oregon until moving to Colorado in the winter of 1980. There, he graduated from high school and worked in the Machinist Trade until 1993 when he entered the manufacturing industry as a production supervisor and personnel manager. Also while in Colorado, Steve became involved with Special Olympics which lead to his passion for human services. “The joy and satisfaction I found in serving others and helping people be the best they can be,” says Steve, resulted in his decision to work in the disability services field upon returning to Idaho in 2001.

Steve has worked as a Therapy Technician in learning centers and assisted living facilities, and has even spent some time as a Developmental Disability Technician at the Idaho State School and Hospital. His most recent work includes Direct Care Provision and Training for a rehabilitation services company, and Job Site Development for a vocational support agency in Moscow.

Clearly, Steve’s knowledge and experience in many aspects of disabilities and Independent Living make him a great new addition to our staff. But that’s not all he has to offer; Steve is truly driven to make a difference, add value to our world, and change lives. “I look forward to learning more in order to improve my ability to help others help themselves,” Steve says. “I am excited to be working for DAC, and I’m enthusiastic to have the opportunity to contribute to the great services, support, and advocacy DAC provides for people with disabilities.”

Perhaps anyone can learn to effectively present to an audience like he did at WSU last week, but Steve brings more than just leadership and a knack for public speaking: when it comes to the rights of people with disabilities, he brings unwavering determination, while still being approachable and compassionate. And, unlike public-speaking, those characteristics can’t just be learned—they’re from the heart. <>