Discovering In Control: A Path to Self-Directed Social Care This insightful document explores the transformative work of the in Control initiative, a groundbreaking approach to self-directed support and individualized funding in the UK’s social care system. Authored by John O’Brien and David Towell, it reflects on the challenges and successes of empowering individuals […]
Discovering Meaning in Direct Support Work: A Guide to Fulfillment This insightful document explores the experiences of direct support workers at Creative Community Living Services (CCLS) in Wisconsin, highlighting the challenges and rewards of assisting people with disabilities. Through candid discussions, workers share how meaningful relationships, personal growth, and a sense of purpose […]
Discover the Power of Person-Centered Planning This insightful booklet, authored by John O’Brien and Herbert Lovett, explores the transformative approach of person-centered planning (PCP) for individuals with disabilities. Sponsored by the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare, the publication delves into the foundations, practices, and potential of PCP to create meaningful, inclusive futures for people […]
Discover the transformative power of the “Ethics of Possibility” in this insightful document by John O’Brien. It explores how personal assistants can move beyond mere task-doers or rule-followers to become creative allies who empower individuals with disabilities to lead meaningful lives. Through real-life examples, like Martin’s journey from buying snacks to becoming a […]
Cultivating Thinking Hearts: A Guide to Lifesharing and Community Building This insightful document, Cultivating Thinking Hearts, explores the transformative concept of lifesharing—an intentional way of living that fosters deep, meaningful relationships between people with and without developmental disabilities. Authored by Helen Zipperlen and John O’Brien, the book is a collection of letters and essays […]
Navigating the Crooked Map Zone: A Guide to Improving Services for People with Disabilities This insightful document explores the challenges and opportunities in improving services for people with developmental disabilities. Using the metaphor of a “crooked map,” it highlights how outdated mental models and rigid service structures can lead organizations astray, despite their […]
What Can We Count On To Make and Keep People Safe? This insightful document explores how to create effective safeguards for people with developmental disabilities, focusing on building inclusive communities and improving assistance. It highlights the vulnerabilities faced by individuals with disabilities, such as isolation, lack of power, and inadequate support systems, while […]
A Tune Beyond Us, Yet Ourselves: Power Sharing Between People With Disabilities and Their Assistants This insightful document dives into the concept of power sharing between individuals with substantial disabilities and their assistants, exploring how collaboration can empower people with disabilities to lead more independent and fulfilling lives. It challenges traditional service models […]
This insightful document, My House is Covered with Papers! Reflections on a Generation of Active Citizenship, explores the transformative journey of five Wisconsin mothers advocating for their children with developmental disabilities. Through personal stories, it highlights their challenges, triumphs, and the critical role of civic activism in shaping policies and services for individuals […]
Renewing Organizations Through Person-Centered Planning: A Quick Overview This insightful document by John O’Brien and Beth Mount explores how human service organizations can transform through person-centered planning. It introduces a five-part framework for fostering meaningful change: Personal Futures Planning, Interactive Problem Solving, Strategic Redesign, Systematic Evaluation, and Structured Reflection. Each activity plays […]