Creating an inclusive community

We are committed to building and participating in a community where all persons are welcomed and where all members are valued for who they are and for the contributions they make. This is the vision of an inclusive community — a place characterized by diversity, hospitality, belonging and respect.

Persons with developmental disabilities have historically been excluded from our society and segregated into institutions. This has weakened our communities because it has deprived us of the richness of their perspectives and abilities. It has also deprived us of the beauty of their friendship. Inclusion creates a better, stronger and safer community.

We are also committed to persons with disabilities having and exercising the same rights to self-determination as other citizens. To be selfdetermining means that one has control over one’s life and future—and this includes the right to make decisions about where one lives and how one lives. This is essential to self-esteem, meaning and hope. This is essential to quality of life.

Our services are guided by a set of core values that describe how we work with persons served, families, community partners and each other. They are a part of all that we do, and a reminder of the “heart” that is in our work. A strong set of values ensures that our organization can continue to evolve with the changing needs of our persons-served.

Our values

person-centred

• We are person-centred in our thinking and our actions.
• We are teachers and coaches, fostering learning, growth, independence.

inclusion

• We believe communities are richer when everyone is included and given a chance to make a contribution.
• We believe a full life includes exercising rights, fulfilling responsibilities, making choices and experiencing mistakes and successes.

diversity

• We celebrate the diversity of people and cultures and encourage greater cultural connections.

learning

• We have the courage to question beliefs, to speak up, take risks and challenge the status quo.
• We believe in continuous learning, sharing and collaboration.

excellence and innovation

• We expect the best from ourselves and celebrate the best in others.
• We act ethically and with integrity in all that we do.
• We see possibilities, not limitations.

posAbilities offers:  community inclusion, residential, and behaviour consultation services.