This inspiring document dives into the transformative ideas of Judith Snow, a trailblazer in community inclusion and disability advocacy. It challenges readers to build meaningful relationships with those who have been marginalized, emphasizing the power of shared dreams and mutual enrichment. Snow redefines human connection, suggesting that life is not about isolated individuals but […]
Discover the transformative power of MAPS (Making Action Plans), a collaborative and inclusive planning tool designed to help students, families, and educators create meaningful futures. Rooted in the philosophy that everyone belongs, MAPS fosters inclusion by building friendship networks and addressing the unique needs of students, particularly those with special needs. This document […]
What’s More is Possible? A Guide to Person-Centered Practices This insightful document by John O’Brien and Beth Mount explores the transformative power of person-centered practices for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It challenges readers to ask, “What more is possible?”—of themselves, their communities, and the services they rely on. The authors emphasize […]
This document is a comprehensive guide to discovering “what more is possible” in person-centered planning, aimed at fostering meaningful change for individuals relying on long-term support. It introduces a step-by-step framework inspired by Theory U, emphasizing deep listening, adaptive leadership, and co-creation. The guide explores how to build relationships, challenge limiting assumptions, and create […]
This document dives into the heart of creating meaningful lives for people with developmental disabilities (DD) by exploring practices that foster belonging, choice, valued social roles, contribution, and shared spaces. It emphasizes the importance of cultural change, urging readers to challenge societal norms like being “too busy” and embrace spaciousness—making time, slowing down, and […]
Stanley Hauerwas’s reflection on community and diversity challenges us to confront the “tyranny of normality” and rethink how we build inclusive communities. His talk, delivered to parents and workers supporting people with intellectual disabilities, calls for a deeper conviction to embrace difference and resist the temptation to segregate or normalize those who carry frightening […]
This document dives deep into the question: “What can we count on to make and keep people safe?” It explores how to create effective safeguards for people with developmental disabilities, balancing community ties and professional systems. Through discussions, historical insights, and real-life stories, it highlights the vulnerabilities faced by people with disabilities—like isolation, […]
tensions between grounded relationships and abstract systems in the world of developmental disability support. It explores the values we stand for—like inclusion, person-centered supports, and community building—and the practices we stand against, such as segregation and bureaucratic imposition. O’Brien reflects on the challenges of balancing human connection with the growing dominance of transactional, rule-driven […]
This document, written by John O’Brien, explores the evolution and impact of TASH, an international organization advocating for the inclusion of people with significant disabilities, alongside the development of person-centered work. It delves into the origins, practices, and values of person-centered planning, direct support, and design—approaches that empower individuals with disabilities to lead meaningful […]
This document explores the transformative work of “in Control,” a pioneering initiative aimed at revolutionizing social care through Self-Directed Support. Authored by John O’Brien and David Towell, it reflects on in Control’s innovative approach to empowering individuals who rely on social care by promoting their full citizenship. The report highlights key principles such […]