In this inspiring video, Connie Lyle O’Brien and Beth Mount revewl their journey with person-centered approaches that began in the 1970s alongside deinstitutionalization. This approach focuses on honouring the citizenship and unique contributions of people with disabilities, moving them from large institutions into family homes and community settings (00:01:15). These are real stories from Georgia, where 38 individuals were successfully transitioned into family homes in just 18 months, showing the power of support and community (00:05:30).
The video also shares the challenges faced in early community programs, highlighting a turning point when a PASS evaluation revealed the need for deeper change and higher expectations (00:12:45). This led to redesigning programs and even closing outdated units to create better lives for people with disabilities (00:15:20).
Join us to learn how commitment, collaboration, and courage can transform lives and build a Beloved Community where everyone belongs. This is a hopeful, educational look at changing expectations and creating real change.