A STATEMENT OF VALUES INCLUDING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES IN OUR COMMUNITIES

IT’S THE LAW RCW 71A TITLE II AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) –42 U.S.C. 1201(a)(8) –42 U.S.C –28 c.f.r (D) PUBLIC LAW PART A SEC. 101 C)

RCW 71A RCW = REVISED CODE OF WASHINGTON IT’S THE LAW! ….(2) The secretary shall provide persons who receive services the opportunity for integration with non-handicapped and less handicapped persons to the greatest extent possible

TITLE II OF THE ADA U.S.C. = United States Code IT’S THE LAW ! 42 U.S.C. 1201(a)(8) “…..the Nation’s proper goals regarding individuals with disabilities are to assure equality of opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency for such individuals.”

TITLE II OF THE ADA (con’t) C.F.R = Code OF Federal Regulations IT’S THE LAW ! Department of Justice regulations require: “….a public entity shall administer services, programs, and activities in the most integrated setting appropriate to the needs of the qualified individuals with disabilities”

DEVELOPMENTAL DIABILITIES ASSISTANCE AND BILL OF RIGHTS ACT P.L. = Public Law IT’S THE LAW? P.L Part a sec. 101 c)POLICY “(1) individuals with developmental disabilities, including those with the most severe developmental disabilities, are capable of achieving independence, productivity, and integration and inclusion into the community…..

DEFINITION OF INCLUSION It is a belief in every person’s inherent right to participate fully in society. Inclusion implies acceptance of differences. It means welcoming a person who otherwise would be excluded. Translating this philosophy into reality is a process that requires collaboration, teamwork, flexibility, a willingness to take risks, and support from a whole array of individuals, services and community systems. The goal of inclusion is for all people, including infants through senior citizens, to lead productive lives as full, participating members of their communities.

Key Elements of Inclusion Definition  Responsive Community Systems Acceptance Welcoming

Key Elements of Inclusion Definition (con’t)  Supports Otherwise would be excluded

Key Elements of Inclusion Definition (con’t)  Responsible Risk Taking Full productive participating member……..

Key Elements of Inclusion Definition (con’t)  Full Productive, Participating Member Teamwork, collaboration, flexible

MISSION STATEMENT (KCDD Board) To assist King County residents of all ages and cultures who have a developmental disability to achieve full, active, integrated and productive participation in community life.

GUIDELINES FOR USE OF FUNDS (THE CHOICE WORK GROUP Final Report and Recommendations 6/8/00) …….The primary focus for adults, regardless of the challenge of their disability, is employment. For individuals of retirement age, who have decided to retire, and other individuals for whom work is determined not to be a current option, the focus is on community connections and enhanced participation in the community. (page 9)