Person Centered Approaches to a Meaningful and Enviable Life

In this inspiring and informative presentation Dr. Tom Pomeranz shares with participants the critical importance in building a circle of supports, which establishes the foundation for quality of life. Tom discusses what it means to have "a real life in the community". A "real life" results by assuring that all individuals are encouraged to give and do for others - an enviable life A life that includes the presence of family, friends and staff who promote options, support opportunities and demonstrate optimism - the three O's necessary to attain a preferred future.

The session emphasizes that supporting people in realizing their preferred future is not merely a matter of thinking outside the box - we may have to blow up the box. This creative process necessitates that all those in the lives of in individuals supported dispel the belief that people with significant disabilities cannot have a life. Tom emphasizes that the premise for a quality of life is the realization of happiness. Happiness can be attained when families/guardians, friends and support staff play a role in nurturing the individual in transitioning through their significant life events.
Tom culminates the presentation by exploring the Core Quality of Life domains. These domains include: emotional well-being, interpersonal relationships, personal development and self-determination. In actualizing these domains the individual has the opportunity to participate in and contribute to their communities, as well as the ability and opportunity to exercise control over the services, supports and other assistance that they need and desire.