Reviewing Organizational Capacity for person Centered Work

This document, “Reviewing Organization Capacity for Person-Centered Work” by John O’Brien, is a thoughtful guide for organizations striving to deliver truly person-centered supports for individuals with developmental disabilities. ​ It explores the creative tension between an organization’s vision for person-centered care and its current reality, emphasizing the importance of embracing this gap to foster learning and growth. ​

The content is structured around key questions and frameworks that help organizations assess their capacity to negotiate individualized support agreements, promote valued social roles in community settings, and assist individuals in self-defining and self-directing their supports. ​ It highlights the constraints and freedoms within program design, funding flows, staffing, and community relationships, offering a comparative view of “more constrained” versus “more free” approaches. ​

Readers will find practical tools, such as tables and inventories, to evaluate their organization’s strengths, areas for improvement, and development needs. The document also underscores the importance of enabling individuals to take on meaningful roles—like homeowner, employee, or volunteer—that foster positive recognition and relationships beyond the boundaries of traditional services. ​

Whether you’re a leader, advocate, or ally in the field of developmental disability services, this document provides a roadmap for creating supports that align with individual purposes and preferences. ​ It’s a call to action for organizations to shift from service-driven models to person-centered practices that empower individuals to live lives of distinction and contribution. ​ Dive in to discover actionable insights and frameworks to transform your approach to care! ​