• Guiding truths that shape the way individuals, families and service providers interact
• Establish common ground upon which individuals, families, advocates and service providers operate
• Form the basis for program policy and practice.

 WHEN WE ENGAGE WITH INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES WE WILL…

HONOR THEIR EXPERTISEand right to make choices that they know to be in their own best interest

RESPECT AND ACCEPT THEIR VALUESthat are based in personal preferences, cultural beliefs and life-ways

SUPPORT INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS that are safe, stable and long lasting

FOCUS ON THE ENTIRE FAMILY as it is defined by the family

PROMOTE FLEXIBLE SERVICE AND FUNDING supporting individual and family control over who, what, when, where and how supports are provided

AFFIRM LIFESPAN PLANNING AND SELF-DETERMINATION that encourages decision-making and planning for independence beginning within the family when children are young, following the individual throughout their life and including aging issues

ASSURE PARTNERSHIPS WHICH ACTIVELY INCLUDE INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIESin planning, development, implementation and evaluation of policies, practices and personal programs

PRACTICE OPEN COMMUNICATIONpromoting a clear understanding of all aspects of systems policy, procedure, practice and all other information regarding them

RECOGNIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF THE COMMUNITY, where individuals and their families belong and realize their full potential

All people need enduring, stable family and community relationships. All families need support at times in their lives to maintain these lasting relationships.  Individual and family support must assist across the lifespan, supporting the child within the family and the individual reaching independence. This assistance builds on natural sources of support including extended families, friends, neighbors and community associations.  The way support is provided is a reflection of what we believe about individuals and families, a way of thinking about individuals and families and a way of engaging with individuals and families.

Developed by Members of the Oklahoma Family Support Council

Endorsed By These Organizations

Center for Learning and Leadership / UCEDD

Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma (DSACO)

Family Perspectives Committee of the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth

Mom’s Group, Tulsa Advocates for the Rights of Citizens with Developmental Disabilities

Norman Social Services Coordination Council

Oklahoma Adoption Coalition

Oklahoma Chapter – National Association of Social Workers

Oklahoma Developmental Disabilities Council

Oklahoma Family Network

Oklahoma Family Resource Coalition

Oklahoma Respite Resource Network

Oklahoma Olmstead Strategic Planning Committee

United Cerebral Palsy of Oklahoma

Woodward Chapter — People First