Key Concepts of Support

1. We embrace the role of teacher, mentor, and coach.

We acknowledge that everyone has the ability to learn and that learning is a lifelong process. Each individual learns in unique ways, and we are open and willing to learn from the people we support. We recognize that the person who experiences a disability has the most insight into their own disability, and we strive to learn from them. Our goal is to teach skills that enhance autonomy, identifying the specific skills individuals need to live their own lives. We provide the least level of assistance necessary and differentiate between what supports are truly needed and what may be desired. Rather than doing things for the individuals we support, we encourage our staff to do everything with them. Lastly, we believe in learning individual communication styles and understanding that everyone is capable of communicating; we just need to learn how to listen.

2. We develop partnerships.

In order to to this effectively, we get to know the person. By learning about their values and differentiating between what is important to them and for them, meaningful relationships can be built. We aim to see and recognize every individual's potential, and to not let preconceived notions limit their possibilities. Meeting people where they are and providing appropriate support allows for personal growth and self empowerment. It is important to recognize the difference between guiding someone and controlling them. Developing healthy relationships with peers, supervisors, and families is also crucial, as it sets a positive example for the person being supported.

3. We seek information.

Ask questions of various resources such as the person, their family members, other professionals, the internet, and other staff members. Encourage the person to try new things and utilize the many resources available at Hope. The mindset of continually asking if there is a better way and being open to change leads to enhanced supports and care for each individual. We embrace self evaluation, learning from mistakes, and adapting our approach as people grow and change and their supports grow and change with them.

4. We are present.

The focus here is on actively listening and being attentive to the person speaking. To be a good listener, one must maintain eye contact, remain quiet, keep their hands still, engage their brain in processing the information, listen carefully with their ears, and remain still with their feet. It is important to be attentive and genuinely interested in understanding what the speaker is trying to communicate. Additionally, taking the time to process and think about what was said before responding is encouraged, even if it means having moments of silence.

5. We build bridges, not barriers.

This concept promotes inclusivity and understanding in relationships and interactions, and it emphasizes the importance of being sensitive to the impact we have on others, regardless of our intentions, and apologizing when we unintentionally upset someone. We encourage seeking out new experiences and helping others access their support systems and communities of choice. Utilizing assistive technology is recommended to enhance independence and decrease reliance on others. Recognizing and celebrating even small achievements is vital in supporting individuals throughout their personal journeys.

6. We provide options.

We emphasize the importance of providing options to individuals. It highlights the belief that choice is about having a variety of options, not just limited to trivial decisions like clothing or shopping. We aim to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to make their own decisions, even in more complex situations. We also recognize that a change as circumstances—such as a change in situation, location, or environment—also necessitate adjustments in the person's options and preferences.

7. We consider risks.

As staff, it's important that we remain open to trying new things and understand that supports should be tailored to the individual receiving them. Making choices can have positive and negative outcomes, so it is our responsibility to educate individuals about these possibilities. Being part of a community may come with its own risks, and our goal is to help individuals prevent accidents without exerting control over their lives.

8. We become 'part of.'

In all we do, we strive for community membership and belonging. We explore the community(ies) that the person values, even if they are different from our own, and encourage and support their engagement. We have found that many groups and communities are very welcoming and inclusive of people who experience disabilities. Including the community in daily activities and teaching generalization between different activities is essential. We do our best to educate the community on the value of inclusion and integration to ensure that all members are equal and valued participants.

9. We make contributions.

We engage in acts of kindness every chance we get. In the words of Aesop, "No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted." We work, volunteer, and participate in our communities, and we seek ways for the individuals who choose our supports to do the same in their communities of choice.

10. We honor commitments.

Setting an example is important, as individuals in supportive roles serve as role models for others. Consistency and follow-through are also key aspects; we aim to align our words, emotions and actions, for which we are accountable by the individuals who choose our supports, their family members, to the organization as a whole, and to ourselves.