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The Consortium has consistently focused on community–based
approaches to meet the needs of people with disabilities. Our focus
has not been on "fixing" or improving people, but rather
on creating and influencing positive changes in the environment
that improve the quality of life of individuals with disabilities.
The organization's mission statement guides and supports us in
these endeavors:
The Consortium is a center for responsible innovation that creates
conditions to enhance the lives and make possible the dreams
of people living with disabilities
and/or living with the impact of abuse.
Over time, certain themes have developed. We believe that people with disabilities:
- Have the same rights and responsibilities as others.
- Have a right to be included in and will make a contribution to all aspects of community life.
- Should have choice and control in the decisions that directly affect their lives.
- Should have long–term, freely given relationships.
In acting on these beliefs we are guided by the following principles:
- Identification with people served – The Consortium will
foster understanding and empathy with people who have disabilities.
- Empowerment – The Consortium will assist people with
disabilities in gaining control over decisions that will affect their lives.
- Growth – The Consortium is committed to the growth and development of people.
- Inclusion – The Consortium will promote inclusion in community life
and help people to achieve higher levels of integration and involvement.
- Renewal – The Consortium will periodically evaluate its
policies and practices, maintain openness to new ideas consistent
with its values, and continually strive to improve its services.
- Steadfastness – The Consortium will stand by the people
it serves and adhere to its values over the long term.
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