Statewide approaches to community integration: moving toward technical assistance strategies that make a difference

Abstract

As part of the international movement toward user-directed and community approaches to assistance, this article highlights the findings of a comprehensive technical assistance and training effort to increase the community integration of people with the most severe disabilities in 35 states in the US. The first section of the article presents an overview of the US state, regional, and private vendor systems, describes the process of assistance, compares it with traditional university approaches to training, and discusses the methods, approaches and techniques in creating local and state change. Highlighting leadership and person-centered approaches, the author analyzes policy and systems in relationship to families, foster care, housing, recreation, education, employment, and prevention. The article concludes with translating philosophical principles through regulations, legislation, financing, quality, and agency change to better support the participation of people with disabilities in community life.