The Board believes that people with disabilities and special needs are vital and integral members of our community who, with proper support, can determine their own futures.  In addition, the Board considers opportunities in the areas of self-determination key to the ability to choose one’s own future. 

System Concepts and Principles

The following concepts and principles describe the broad principles of the Board in designing a person-centered system that serves people with disabilities and special needs:

• The system should be simple for people to access with the Board serving as the single point of entry.  The network will be based on person-centered outcomes, inclusion and self-determination.
• The system should provide appropriate separation of planning, oversight, service delivery, and service coordination functions as needed to reduce conflicts of interest.  The network will be vigilant in protecting the rights of people through advocacy efforts, quality assurance, investigation of reported incidents, and response to abuse situations. 
• Ongoing evaluation of services, identification of obstacles, and development of strategies to overcome these obstacles are continuing components of the service delivery system.  Input and guidance from the people we support, providers, and the general public in Richland and Lexington counties are essential to insure that the system of care best supports people with disabilities and special needs. 
• Transitions from one service to another should be as simple and uncomplicated as possible. 
• People supported by the system will be encouraged and trained to take responsibility and to become self-advocates.  Self-determination will be promoted.  Recognizing that families are the constants in the lives of all people, the Board seeks to promote the continued involvement of families in the active care of their family members.
• The system should enable people supported by the system to make their own choices with the assistance of families and friends as needed. 
• Services and funding for services should be based on personal needs and choices.  The Board’s requests for funding will be based on the needs.
• The Board will encourage and be receptive to innovative and creative concepts that insure self-determination.