To open the door to freedom and choice and control for people with disabilities, current public systems of support in Georgia must change so that people with disabilities:

• Have some control over the money and services that they receive.
  
• Are empowered to speak out for their rights and to achieve their own goals and dreams.

With self-advocates who have disabilities and their allies, IHDD is spreading the word about systems change. Our vision is a day when all people with disabilities in Georgia will:

• Have real choice and control over their own lives.
  
• Live in their own home, work (and get paid) at a real job, and have fun – when and where they choose.
  
• Are valued, contributing members in their community.

The Keys to the door are the four principles of Self-Determination

Freedom:

• To make plans
  
• To act on those plans and take risks
  
• To learn from mistakes
  
• To make friends
  
• To date, marry, start families

Authority:

• Control money and services
  
• Own a home and valuables
  
• Hire and fire staff
  
• Take part in all decisions

Support:

• When and where needed
  
• From chosen, respectful staff, friends, and family
  
• That encourage plans and dreams

Responsibility:

• Paying bills and taxes
  
• Staying on budget
  
• Giving to the community
  
• Sharing talents

For more information contact:
Vici Decker at (706) 583-0544 or vdeck@ihdd.uga.edu.