Fostering self-sufficiency in adults with developmental disabilities

Based in Santa Clara County, California, the Special Place Foundation seeks to establish a nurturing, semi-rural, residential-vocational community for adults with disabilities, designed to foster self-sufficiency.  The core principles guiding the combination residential/vocational environment include:

• Comfort – a home environment surrounded by familiar, supportive friends, accessible support services, private living space, and peer group activities.
  
  
• Challenge – Vocational activities of varied and increasing skill levels, that both challenge participants and support them in developing vocational expertise, experiencing fulfillment, achieving self-confidence and satisfaction for a job well done.
  
  
• Contribution – Activities and programs that allow participants to make meaningful and understandable contributions to their community.
  
  
• Enrichment – Exposure to, and in-depth participation in diverse and engaging cultural and educational experiences and activities, that expand and develop participants interests & skills.
  
  
• Self-sufficiency –  life-skills training, independence training, support and encouragement to explore and pursue individual interests and goals.
  
  
• Community Integration – special events, activities, and programs that foster social and educational interactions with peers and mentors.
  
  
• Safety – a monitored and nurturing environment that supports residents in distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy choices.
  
  
• Sustainability – a sustainable living environment that follows green building principles, organic farming and land-use techniques, and supports long-term residency.