Adapting to Scarcity – John O’Brien
Adapting to Scarcity: Building a Sustainable Service System for Developmental Disabilities
This insightful document explores the challenges of scarcity in services for people with developmental disabilities and offers a roadmap for creating a sustainable system. It highlights the growing waiting lists, funding shortfalls, and workforce crises that leave families struggling to cope. While increasing public investment is essential, the author argues that true sustainability requires a shift in principles, practices, and relationships.
The paper introduces the concept of sustainability as a system that meets present needs without compromising future generations. It emphasizes the importance of balancing growth (serving more people) with development (empowering individuals and families to creatively use resources). The author advocates for moving beyond reactive solutions focused solely on money and instead fostering innovation, community building, and person-centered planning.
Key building blocks for a sustainable system include individual funding, flexible assistance, transitioning outdated services, personal support, and community development. The goal is to empower people with disabilities and their families to participate as valued members of their communities, rather than relying on bureaucratic systems that control their lives.
The document also addresses objections and challenges, such as funding disparities and the need for shared learning and collaboration. It calls for cultural change, political advocacy, and relationship-building to create a system rooted in mutual support and resourcefulness.
Ultimately, this paper is a call to action for families, advocates, and policymakers to rethink how services are designed and delivered. By focusing on empowerment, creativity, and community, it offers a hopeful vision for a future where people with developmental disabilities can thrive. Dive in to explore practical strategies and inspiring ideas for transforming scarcity into sustainability!