Jennifer Savo has always believed in the golden rule: treat everyone with respect. She is a writer, an advocate, a speaker, and a true inspiration. For Jen, advocacy isn’t just a concept—it’s a way of life shaped by resilience and a deep desire to be heard.
Jen is a resident of Aspire of WNY’s Oakwood residence, and describes moving there as one of the best decisions she’s ever made. Beyond care, she’s found community. “This is the best place for me,” she says. “They’re always there for you, always want to find out what’s wrong. They always come back, even when I shut them out.”
Jen draws strength from the relationships she’s built, with staff members like Aliyah and Kristen making a profound impact. “She’s always close to us. She really cares,” Jen says of Aaliyah. “We can laugh and joke and not be nervous—having someone you can trust is important. She took me on an outing today. We’ve been to a Bills game together.”
Despite living with cerebral palsy, Jen has never let it silence her expression. Using hand-over-hand assistance, Jen has been able to paint and connect with others. She finds her purpose through art and activism.
Jen’s advocacy is rooted in her earliest experiences—being stared at, dismissed, and underestimated. These moments sparked a determination in her to stand up, not only for herself but for others. Although sometimes nervous, she demonstrates an unwavering commitment to her mission to push for change and end the stigma surrounding disability.
“Advocacy means that people with disabilities can speak up for themselves,” she explains. “We’re normal, just like anyone else. Just listen to us. If you have a question, ask—don’t stare.”
Jen strives to amplify the voices of those around her, too. She’s proud to have stood up for a coworker at work, reminding them of their right to be heard. And at Elmwood Day Hab, she finds pride in small victories—like walking with a walker during physical therapy or helping with daily routines. “That makes me feel strong,” she says.
Jen is a passionate leader of social justice events. From organizing clothing drives to children’s hospital fundraisers, she shows up with purpose. Like all of us at Aspire of WNY, she dreams of a world where accessibility and inclusivity aren’t an afterthought but the norm. “We’re all people.”
To actualize those dreams, Jen writes letters to Congress, pressing for better access in her community and greater availability in the programs that mean the most to her. This empowers her to live up to her highest level of independence. In the future, she is eager to share her story, hoping to speak at events like DD Day (Developmental Disability Awareness Day) and others.
The story of Jennifer Savo serves as a powerful reminder that to ignite impactful systemic change, we must always begin with a compassionate heart and understanding of one another, because true change is built on connection, empathy, and collective action.