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 […]
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 Transition to Supported Living: A Journey of Change and Opportunity This insightful report evaluates the transformation of Jay Nolan Community Services (JNCS) from operating group homes to providing individualized supported living services for people with autism. Conducted in June 1995, the evaluation highlights the agency’s commitment to empowering individuals with autism to […]
The Transition to Supported Living: A Journey of Change and Opportunity This insightful report evaluates the transformation of Jay Nolan Community Services (JNCS) from operating group homes to providing individualized supported living services for people with autism. Conducted in June 1995, the evaluation highlights the agency’s commitment to empowering individuals with autism to […]
Unlocking the Power of Person-Centred Planning: A Path to Inclusion and Purpose This insightful document explores the transformative potential of person-centred planning in creating meaningful lives for individuals with disabilities. While widely adopted in some regions, such as England, the approach has shown positive but limited outcomes, particularly in fostering employment opportunities and inclusive […]
Walking Toward Freedom: A Family’s Journey to Self-Determination This inspiring document by John O’Brien and Connie Lyle O’Brien shares the remarkable story of Sheri and her parents, Marge and Earl, as they navigate the challenges of creating a life of self-determination for Sheri, who lives with multiple disabilities. It explores their journey 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 […]
Understanding Supported Living: A Guide to Empowering Lives This document explores the transformative concept of supported living for individuals with developmental disabilities, emphasizing the importance of personalized assistance and autonomy. Supported living is not about controlling or fixing people but about empowering them to lead safe, independent lives in homes of their choosing. […]