What Do Good Quality Service Systems do – Learning Strategies? – O’Brien

This insightful document by John O’Brien and Connie Lyle O’Brien explores how high-quality services can empower individuals with developmental disabilities (DD) to thrive within their communities. It highlights the risk of well-meaning services unintentionally isolating people with DD by becoming their sole environment, limiting opportunities for mutual contribution and growth. ​ Instead, the authors advocate for services that focus on fostering community connections and supporting individuals in discovering their unique interests and gifts. ​

The document outlines five essential tasks that good services learn to do: discovering interests and gifts, creating community opportunities, supporting connections, providing assistance, and safeguarding. ​ These tasks aim to help individuals with DD participate meaningfully in community life while ensuring their safety and well-being. ​ The authors emphasize the importance of balancing health and safety with opportunities for personal growth and community involvement, cautioning against overprotection that can stifle development. ​

Through engaging visuals and thoughtful insights, the document encourages readers to rethink the role of services in the lives of people with DD. It inspires a shift from isolation to inclusion, urging service providers to collaborate with families and communities to unlock the potential for contribution and connection. ​ This is a must-read for anyone passionate about creating inclusive environments where everyone can thrive. ​