Welcome! In this engaging webinar, Beth Mount takes us on a heartfelt journey through the history and evolution of person-centered planning. Starting from the challenging times of the 1970s and 80s, when many people with disabilities lived in institutions, Beth shares inspiring stories of how communities, especially in rural South Georgia, came together to create valued social roles and opportunities for young people with disabilities. Employment, community belonging, and individual gifts are at the heart of this approach.
Beth highlights the importance of seeing each person’s unique potential—what she calls the “acorn theory”—and how discovering and nurturing these gifts can lead to meaningful lives filled with contribution and respect. Through real-life examples like Ken Berg and Marianne Langton, we learn how ordinary citizens and innovative supports can transform lives, making inclusion and self-direction possible.
This webinar invites us all to imagine new possibilities, embrace creativity, and work together to build beloved communities where everyone belongs and thrives. Whether you’re new to person-centered planning or looking to deepen your understanding, Beth’s warm and insightful presentation offers hope, practical wisdom, and a call to action for a more inclusive world.