self advocacy

Self-determination gives people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to make choices about their own lives.

Discover how person-centered planning and community support promote independence and inclusion across Mississippi.

Supporting independence means empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to make choices while receiving the support they need. Shellena Leftridge explains why dignity, self-advocacy and person-centered planning matter.

By Shellena L. When we talk about supporting adults with disabilities, especially those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, one idea should always come first: the person. For many years, services were designed around systems, schedules, and rules. People were often expected to fit into programs instead of programs fitting around people. Person-centered planning turns that…