SELF-DETERMINATION
Self-determination is believing you can control your own destiny. We believe that freedom, authority, autonomy, and responsibility are the key to living a full life – for everyone, regardless of disability. You should have the freedom to plan a life with the supports you need. You should have the authority to control your service resources. You should have the support you need to be involved in the community. You should have the responsibility to oversee your services and appropriately use public funds. It means making your own choices, learning to effectively solve problems, and taking control and responsibility for one’s life. Practicing self-determination also means one experiences the consequences of making choices. We are here to support you each step of the way.
OPERATING PRINCIPLES
Understanding of and commitment to the following principles are essential to ensure this basic human right. Each action and decision made within the system should be weighed against these principles. Personal plans should also be weighed against these principles to ensure that the road to self-determination is not being impeded.
FREEDOM:
People have the right to choose how they will live their lives, where and with whom. When people need help, it is the friends and family closest to them who assist them in broadening their experiences and exercising their right to choose. It is essential each person have a network or circle of support chosen by them.
RELATIONSHIPS:
The relationships a person has with others are like precious gems and should be treated in that way. A relationship must be treasured, nurtured, and protected. Those with whom the individual has real relationships provide the strength, assistance, and security which ensure each person’s well being. The development of new freely-given relationships is crucial.
CONTRIBUTION AND COMMUNITY:
Everyone has the ability to contribute to their community in a meaningful way. Giving of ourselves helps us establish a sense of belonging and identity. Community membership includes having an opportunity to be employed, to have your own home, to be truly involved in the routines of the community and to make a difference in the lives of others.
RESPONSIBILITY AND ROLES:
Individuals, as they take greater control and authority over their lives and resources, assume greater responsibility for their decisions and actions. They will find their power, become self-advocates, and communicate their needs. Professionals and staff work for the individual rather than the system. Families, friends, and staff assist people to create more meaningful relationships, link them with needed supports, remove barriers, develop safety networks, and help make dreams come true.
AUTHORITY:
People have the power to make decisions and truly control their lives. This includes authority over financial resources, as well as authority to determine what supports are needed, how they will be implemented and by whom. People have control of hiring and evaluating those who provide support.
DREAMING:
All people have hopes and dreams which guide the actions they take and are most meaningful to them. A commitment to helping people determine their dreams come true is crucial.
DIGNITY AND RESPECT:
All people have an inherent right to be treated with dignity and to be respected as a whole person. Disability is secondary to the development of a full and meaningful life. Through life’s journey, most of our greatest lessons are learned when we make choices that we later realize were mistakes. All people have the right to the dignity of risk. The network of support makes risk possible by weaving a safety net which provides safety and supports growth.
WHATEVER IT TAKES:
An attitude that nothing is impossible, as long as it is legal and causes no harm, is required. “No, we can’t,” as an answer is replaced by “How can we make this happen?” Those who work in the system become barrier removers.