There is simply no substitute for freely-given and mutually beneficial relationships that are motivated by love. When people across societal barriers come together in friendship everyone benefits.
Our Mission
We are a relationship-building program that brings isolated people into greater community life. We selectively match one person with disabilities (‘Partner’) with another person who enjoys a more socially included life (‘Advocate’).
We then support voluntary advocates as they strive to understand, represent, and respond to the interests of their partner.
Our Vision
Our vision is a future where the world is keenly aware of the problems people with disabilities face. That knowledge prompts radical personal action to address those needs. Inclusion replaces exclusion, as communities grow in strength and diversity.
Our Values
SUPPORT: People with disabilities, as much as anyone, need families and community that provide trust, security, and mutual affection. Community is where we share common interests, resources, and connections. It is only in the context of community that our individual selves can discover our beauty, worth, and importance.
DIGNITY: Everyone is of unique and sacred value. People with disabilities deserve to be embraced without stigma or stereotypes. Everyone has a contribution to make in our world and deserves the chance to realize and develop their spiritual, relational, and creative capacities.
CONNECTION: Working with those who are closest to a disabled person’s needs will far more likely bring about sustainable change, over and above institutional care. Personal care is where love and common sense is central. Our advice will always be to seek solutions that are as simple, as personal, and as close at hand as possible.
Do For One is founded on the ethical tradition of Judeo-Christian beliefs, specifically the inherent worth of all people. Human Rights is a modernized understand- ing of this value. It is through this tradition that we seek the common good for people of all backgrounds.
Our Story
Inspired by Tony Brooks who lived in Willow Brook State School until his early teens, Andrew Oliver started Do For One in 2012 as a project based out of Job Path NYC. Hear the full story on the podcast. He began hosting monthly prayer meetings and developed strong connections with several churches and community organizations. In May 2015, DFO became an independent 501(c) 3 and Andrew Oliver became it’s full time Director. DFO became an affiliate of Hope For New York in July of 2016, which has since resourced and positioned DFO into the broad network of faith-based associations throughout New York City.
DFO was adapted from a well-established practice called Citizen Advocacy which was conceptualized by Dr. Wolf Wolfensberger. For parents whose children receive services, many ask, “What happens to my child when I’m gone?” Moved by these needs, Dr. Wolfensberger conceived of Citizen Advocacy and established the first office in Lincoln, Nebraska in 1970.
Andrew Oliver shares why he started Do For One in this 2 minute video.