One Day at a Time

This inspiring document, One Day at a Time, tells the story of Ray Browning, a trailblazer in Georgia who defied the odds to move out of a nursing home and into his own apartment, proving that people with severe disabilities can live independently with the right support. After 14 years in institutional care, Ray worked tirelessly to change the system, advocating for personal assistance services and challenging outdated beliefs about disability. His journey highlights the power of self-advocacy, community support, and persistence in creating social change. ​

The document explores two types of change: working within existing rules and pushing to rewrite them. ​ It shares lessons learned from Ray’s efforts, emphasizing the importance of building a base group, asking bold questions, and leveraging system resources to create new possibilities. ​ Ray’s story is a testament to the impact of grassroots activism, as he collaborated with allies, testified at public hearings, and joined advocacy networks to expand opportunities for others.

Readers will also learn practical strategies for organizing systemic change, from understanding political processes to using pilot projects to challenge entrenched beliefs. The narrative is both educational and empowering, offering insights into how individuals and communities can reshape systems to better serve people with disabilities. ​

Whether you’re an advocate, policymaker, or simply curious about how one person can spark transformation, this document is a must-read. It’s a celebration of courage, determination, and the belief that everyone deserves the chance to live life on their own terms—one day at a time. ​