To live in the community is the preference of most individuals with developmental disabilities. However, inherent in this choice are risks. Consumers have access to essential health services. Consumers have the opportunity and choice to have relationships, get married and have a family. Consumers live, work, learn and recreate in settings which maximize opportunities to be with persons not paid to be with them.
Consumers lead the planning and implementation of the service system.
Family support services are flexible and innovative in meeting needs as they evolve over time, are tailored to the preferences of the individual family, and are consistent with their cultural norms and customs. Services and supports for families recognize, facilitate and build on family strengths, natural supports and existing community resources. Family members of adults are supported when their ongoing involvement is preferred by the consumer. Consumers are provided the services and supports in a family-focused and collaborative fashion. Services and supports are provided so that consumers have choices on where and with whom they live, including owning or renting their own homes.