This document explores the evolution and challenges of person-centered planning (PCP), a transformative approach to supporting individuals with disabilities. Initially developed as a grassroots effort to empower people with disabilities, PCP focuses on identifying their unique capacities, dreams, and support needs to create meaningful, inclusive futures. It emphasizes collaboration among individuals, families, service […]
This insightful document, Values-Based Leadership in Supported Living: Stepping Up to the Promise and Spirit of the Home and Community-Based Waiver, explores the transformative power of person-centered planning in creating inclusive, meaningful lives for individuals with disabilities. It emphasizes the importance of fostering autonomy, social inclusion, and solidarity through collaborative strategies like co-sensing possibilities, […]
The Hard Work of “Nothing Special” explores the transformative journey toward creating inclusive communities that value and empower people with disabilities. Written by John O’Brien, this insightful document emphasizes the need for a shift from traditional systems of congregating and controlling individuals with disabilities to fostering supported living arrangements that prioritize independence, choice, and […]
Reflecting on Social Roles: A Guide to Personal Freedom & Social Integration This insightful document explores how communities and service systems can better support individuals with developmental disabilities in achieving personal freedom and social integration. It introduces the concept of “social roles”—the meaningful ways people connect, contribute, and interact within their communities—and emphasizes […]
The Genius of the Principle of Normalization: A Guide to Building Inclusive Communities This insightful document explores the transformative power of the principle of normalization in creating better services and fostering inclusive communities for socially devalued individuals, particularly those with disabilities. Rooted in philosophical pragmatism, the principle emphasizes using socially valued means to […]
The Politics of Person-Centered Planning: A Guide to Navigating Change and Conflict This insightful document by John O’Brien and Connie Lyle O’Brien explores the transformative power of person-centered planning in the lives of people with disabilities. It highlights how this approach is deeply rooted in the politics of community and disability, emphasizing collaboration, […]
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 focus […]
This document dives into the complexities of long-term care reforms within the Developmental Disabilities (DD) system, offering insights into the assumptions and certainties held by decision-makers. It challenges the status quo, advocating for a deeper examination of these beliefs to foster meaningful reform. Key topics include the concept of “choice” as a continuum […]
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 […]