VISION STATEMENT

Community Living Hamilton, an agency supporting individuals with developmental handicaps, is committed to the advancement of a community which

ASSURES that all individuals have equal opportunity to participate and contribute to community life;

ASSURES respect for all individuals;

ASSURES the right of all individuals to enjoy the benefits and responsibilities of independence;

ASSURES the dignity and worth of every individual

To accomplish this vision Community Living Hamilton functions in a partnership of individuals with developmental handicaps, families, staff, volunteers, and other individuals and organizations by providing leadership in advocacy, skill  development and community education.

APPROVED BY MEMBERSHIP - June 18, 1991.

GOAL STATEMENT

That all persons live in a state of dignity, share in all elements of living in their community and have equal opportunity to participate effectively.

OUTCOMES STATEMENT

We believe that individuals with developmental handicaps should experience the security of inclusion in communities that embrace the right to live as independently as possible, supported to the extent that is necessary to meet individual needs and in a manner that uses and respects the ordinary resources in the community.

The fulfilment of this community responsibility will require providing the necessary resources and supports, both natural and organized to assure the following outcomes:

• That individuals are nurtured within a family environment and, as a consequence, enjoy the benefits of family life;
  
  
• That they go with their neighbourhood friends to their neighbourhood schools where they further their growth and development together;
  
  
• That, throughout their lives, people can access and participate in leisure and cultural activities;
  
  
• That, as they grow, people can aspire to and have typical expectations of worthwhile career options that embody the concepts of real work for economic pay and fair recognition of accomplishment.
  
  
• That they have access in adulthood to decent and appropriate homes which they are able to call their own;
  
  
• That they can retire, eventually, to enjoy the lifestyle and activities of their own choosing.
  
  
• That legislation is pursued which supports the ability of individuals to achieve these outcomes.

Further, these outcomes will be undertaken through partnerships that empower and enable people:

• To make clear choices in self-defined terms, however these choices are expressed;
  
  
• To enjoy friendships and other naturally supportive relationships;
  
  
• To express their opinions, aspirations and goals in an environment that respects all individuals.

APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS - April 20, 1993.