Steven Powe is a native Washingtonian who was faced with many barriers growing up with intellectual and learning disabilities, as well as, mental health issues. But throughout his struggles, Steven maintained the aspiration of always wanting to work. At the age of 14, he was able to get his first work experience through DC Summer Youth Program as an office clerk. Through that program, Steven worked for the Navy and the Department of Agriculture. He wanted to join the military, but faced difficulties because of his disabilities. But Steven did not let that stop him in his journey for self-improvement and independence. For 12 years, Steven worked at a law firm in D.C. as the partners’ right hand man. After doing office work for many years, Steven followed in his father’s footsteps and obtained employment in the grocery store industry. Steven worked at CVS and just celebrated his 10 year anniversary at Safeway.

Steven attended Kennedy Institute, a special education program for youth and young adults with disabilities in Washington, DC. It was there that he developed his love and skills for self-advocacy. Steven currently services as the Co-Vice President for Project ACTION!, DC’s statewide self-advocacy coalition. Steven is a strong self-advocate and excellent communicator. He is a social justice activist who works hard to continue learning as well as educate others on important disability rights issues. In addition to working at Safeway, Steven started a fellowship at the Department on Disability Services (DDS) focused on protecting and promoting human rights, in which he learns new things every day. The fellowship is a collaboration between the national Self Advocacy Resource Technical Assistance Center (SARTAC), DDS, and Project ACTION! Steven has a dream of opening a comic book store and coffee shop. He also is very motivated to continue his education. In his free time, Steven enjoys drawing, watching Dr. Who and Star Trek, and spending time with his mom, girlfriend, friends, and nephews.