Hi, my name is Joycelyn Banks. I am 28 years old and live in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. I have Cerebral Palsy due to the lack of oxygen to the brain during birth. My disability causes abnormal muscle tone and vision problems. I attended Wilson Christian Academy and graduated in 2000 from the Geneva College, Beaver Falls Pennsylvania. I received a Bachelor's of Science degree in Educational Studies, with a concentration in Elementary and Special Education. My goals include becoming a counselor to families and children with special needs. I am currently a Rehabilitation Specialist at UCP/CLASS of Pittsburgh. I teach adults with disabilities life skills, such as decision-making, thought organization, and self-protection. Through my work, I advocate daily for people with disabilities so they can find community-based volunteer placements for an introduction to working in the real world. I love teaching Sunday School and work with a co-ed group of fourth and fifth graders. I have published two novels. The first, Two Nations United is a teenage romance novel set in the U.K. and the U. S. The second, The Day America Hits Its Knees, is a collection of poetry and short stories. I like to watch hockey, baseball, artistic gymnastics and figure skating. I enjoy swimming, reading, writing and crafts. I also enjoy visiting cultural attractions. I would describe myself as being caring, a good listener, gentle, kind, and fun loving. I would like to acknowledge my employer, Community Living and Support Services, Inc. who helped sponsor me to enter the pageant.
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