NYSACRA Learning Institute on Innovation and Individualized Supports for Persons with Complex Needs

This document, “Learning Institute on Innovation and Individualized Supports for Persons with Complex Needs,” dives into a transformative journey undertaken by NYSACRA and participating agencies in 2016. ​ It explores how to better support individuals with complex needs through person-centered approaches, emphasizing community integration, self-direction, and individualized supports. ​ Over seven months, change teams partnered with individuals to identify leverage points for action-learning, aiming to shift away from group-based care toward personalized, empowering solutions. ​

The Learning Institute offered workshops, webinars, and a learning journey to foster collaboration and innovation. Key themes include balancing safety with dignity of risk, empowering direct support professionals (DSPs), and driving out fear in systems that often prioritize compliance over creativity. ​ The document highlights the barriers posed by inflexible policies, fear-driven practices, and group-based service models, advocating for transformational change that reimagines relationships, organizational culture, and service delivery. ​

Readers will find insights into the challenges of supporting people with complex needs, strategies for fostering meaningful change, and the importance of ethical relationships and individualized environments. ​ The document also calls for systemic shifts, such as reducing compliance costs, increasing flexibility, and investing in transformational initiatives. ​ It’s a thoughtful exploration of how to create a world where people with complex needs can thrive in their communities, living lives of dignity, choice, and contribution. ​ If you’re passionate about person-centered care and systemic transformation, this is a must-read! ​