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 […]
Person-Centered Planning and System Change: A Guide to Inclusive Communities This document explores the transformative power of person-centered planning in creating inclusive communities where individuals with severe disabilities thrive. It highlights the importance of aligning services with TASH values and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, emphasizing secure housing […]
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 authors advocate […]
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, […]
Transforming Lives Through Person-Centered Planning This chapter by John O’Brien dives into the transformative power of person-centered planning for individuals with severe disabilities. It’s all about creating meaningful change—helping people live independently in their own homes, find integrated employment, and take on valued roles in their communities. Rooted in TASH values and […]
This document is a comprehensive guide to understanding and evaluating Personal Assistance Services (PAS) for individuals with significant disabilities. It emphasizes the importance of PAS in enabling people to live independently, contribute to their communities, and lead dignified lives. The guide highlights three essential qualities of effective PAS: availability based on functional need, […]
This heartfelt tribute celebrates the life and legacy of John O’Brien (1946–2025), a visionary leader in person-centered planning and inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Written by close collaborators and friends, the article reflects on John’s profound impact on the global inclusion movement. As a philosopher and advocate, John reimagined societal […]
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 […]
Thinking about “Not Enough Money” John O’Brien – 22 April, 1999 Those of us who work for inclusion hear a lot about “reality” from those looking for good reasons to discourage us. Many such discouragements involve the scarcity of money to pay for necessary assistance or accommodations. Belief in scarcity of money also justifies dominating […]