Planning in the lives of people with developmental disabilities has moved beyond the "do this, do that" model of the past. A person now has the option of dreaming about and working towards a life of stimulation, fulfillment, variety, individuation and satisfaction. But, without a focused plan that serves the needs and wishes of the person and not the system, service providers fail to help people with disabilities to exercise those options.

Help your managers and support staff to:

• Understand the shift from system-centered to person-centered
• Consider different methods of person-centered planning
• Choose the best approach for their team
• Learn who is involved in the process
• Help the individuals they serve to reach their goals
• Help the individuals they serve to articulate their dreams and nightmares
• Move beyond planning to action
• Celebrate the accomplishments of the team.