Self Determiantion Awards
The Self-Determination Awards celebrate individuals who demonstrate growth, independence, and the ability to make meaningful choices in their lives. This annual event recognizes those who embody the values of self-advocacy, confidence, and personal achievement within our community
Nominations are open for a limited time each year, and selected individuals are honored at our annual banquet.
PRINCIPLES OF SELF DETERMINATION
1
CHOICE
People have the right to choose how they will live their lives, where and with whom. When people need help, it is friends and family closest to them who assist them in broadening their experiences and exercising their right to choose. It is essential that each person has a network or circle of support chosen by them.
2
RELATIONSHIPS
The relationships a person has with others are like precious gems and should be treated in that way. A relationship MUST be treasured, nurtured, and protected. Those with whom the individual has real relationships provide strength, assistance, and security that ensure each person’s well-being.
3
Contribution and Community
Everyone can contribute to their community in a meaningful way. Giving of ourselves helps us establish a sense of belonging and identity, community membership includes having an opportunity to be employed, to have your own home, to be truly involved in the routines of the Community and to make a difference in the lives of others.
1
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Individuals, as they take greater control and authority over their lives and resources, assume greater responsibility for their decisions and actions. They are also responsible to contribute to their supports if resources exist to do so. They will find their power, become self-advocates, and communicate their needs. Professionals and staff work for the individual rather than for the system. Families, friends, and staff assist people to create more meaningful relationships, link them with needed supports, remove barriers, develop safety networks, and help make dreams come true.
2
CONTROL
People have the power to make decisions and truly control their lives. This includes authority over financial resources as well as authority to determine what supports are needed, how they will be implemented and by whom. People also have control of hiring those who will provide support.
3
DREAMING
All people have hopes and dreams that guide the actions they take and are most meaningful to them. A commitment to helping people determine their dreams, respecting those dreams, and helping make dreams come true is crucial.
1
DIGNITY & RESPECT
All people have the inherent right to be treated with dignity and to be respected as a person. Most of life’s greatest lessons are learned when we make choices that we later realize were mistakes. All people have the right to THE DIGNITY OF RISK. The network of support makes risk possible by weaving a safety net that provides safety and supports growth.
2
FISCAL CONSERVATISM
Making things happen does not always require money. It is imperative that alternatives to paid supports be found. When support must be purchased, people will get what they need, pay only for what they get, make real investments, spend money more efficiently, and make adjustments when needed. To find the best quality for the most reasonable price, people are free to purchase in or out of the system.
3
ATTITUDES AND BEHAVIORS
An attitude that “NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE”, as long as it is legal and causes no harm, is required. “NO WE CAN’T” as an answer is replaced with “HOW CAN WE MAKE IT HAPPEN?”