Val Schuhknecht
Disability Advocate
Peer Support
MEMBER BIO
My name is Val Schuhknecht and I’m a Disability Advocate at SAIL, the Disability Network of the U.P. I’ve been raised in the U.P. my whole life and love our community here. I’m a Northern Michigan University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in communications and minored in deaf studies. At SAIL, I assist people in reaching their personal goals and living more independently. I’ve always had a passion for helping others through difficult times or situations. SAIL allows me to do what I enjoy every day and make a positive impact throughout the entire U.P. In my free t, I enjoy camping, summer picnics, ballet, and being a cat mom.
What Our Team Has To Say.
"I want to improve acceptance, community integration and employment opportunities for people in my community who have disabilities. They are individuals with strengths and challenges just like everyone else."
"As an intern at SAIL, I have been able to direct many people toward programs or organizations that may help people live more independently. Every time a goal is accomplished, the feeling of success is totally noticeable. Even with one client at a time, the community is noticing that this organization cares about our clients and the communities in which they serve."
"Disability Network has allowed me to share ways to deal with social issues, given me new ideas about technology and other accommodations, helped me to share and release stress, and increased my self esteem."