Discovering Citizenship & Person-Centered Work: A Guide to Inclusion and Leadership
This insightful volume, Conversations on Citizenship & Person-Centered Work, edited by John O’Brien and Carol Blessing, explores the transformative power of person-centered approaches in supporting individuals with disabilities. Featuring contributions from thought leaders like Beth Mount, Diana Whitney, Michael Smull, Denise Bissonnette, Jack Pearpoint, and others, the book dives deep into themes of citizenship, community, leadership, and employment.
Through engaging interviews and practical frameworks, readers will learn how to shift from traditional service models to person-centered practices that honor individual values, dreams, and contributions. Topics include Appreciative Inquiry, Essential Lifestyle Planning, Asset-Based Community Development, and supported employment principles. The book emphasizes the importance of building relationships, fostering inclusion, and creating customized plans that empower individuals to lead meaningful lives.
Key highlights include:
- The difference between person-centered planning and true person-centeredness.
- Strategies for overcoming barriers to citizenship and employment.
- Practical tools like the Framework for Planning to guide personalized support.
- Insights into leadership, courage, and social innovation in disability services.
With a focus on collaboration, creativity, and community engagement, this book challenges readers to rethink assumptions and embrace a vision of true inclusion. Whether you’re a service provider, advocate, or community member, this resource offers inspiration and actionable ideas to make a positive difference.
Dive in to explore how person-centered work can transform lives, build stronger communities, and redefine what it means to belong.