 Why Choice is So Important Why
does FORConn advocate for a full range of services and supports?
We believe that our citizens with mental retardation have such a wide range of mental capacity, physical ability or disability, unique talents and interests that the range of opportunities offered them should be as diverse as possible. FORConn does not take an ideological stand on where any person with mental retardation should live, work, worship, go to school or spend his or her leisure time. We believe that the same approach for all persons with mental retardation does not work and may even be harmful for some individuals. A full range of choices should be offered in both community and congregrate settings. FORConn is respectful of each person's individuality and, where realistic, each person's right to envision and choose a lifestyle he feels is right for him. When the individual cannot make informed decisions, their guardians speak for them. Persons outside the immediate family and/or legal guardians should not be allowed to push their ideologies or personal views on persons with mental retardation. Why do we support the right of the individuals concerned and their families to choose the supports and services they prefer? The Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-402) states "It is the policy of the United States that... individuals with developmental disabilities and their families are the primary decision makers regarding the services and support such individuals receive, including regarding choosing where the individuals live from available options, and play decision making roles in policies and programs that affect the lives of such individuals." FORConn endorses this policy and we believe that every decision about which services, supports and education a DMR client wishes to use should be made by that client and his family, with the advice of the Interdisciplinary Team and the Case Manager when appropriate. When a client has been ruled by the Probate Court to be unable to make informed decisions about matters related to his care, decisions about his care should be made by their legal guardians. We believe those who live with mental retardation every day of their lives and their families and guardians who support them "come first" when it comes to how and where they will live, go to school, work and play on a day to day basis. If you agree with our philosophy, pleas Join Us!
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