Illinois warehouses more people with disabilities in state-run institutions than almost any other state, ranking 48th in the nation. This rebalancing initiative begins to correct that inequity by shifting from large state institutions to smaller community-based settings, which means a better quality of life and independence for the people we serve.
This is about providing persons with disabilities the same opportunities we all enjoy. Our priority is to work together to make the transition from Jacksonville into community living safe, comfortable and sustainable. The residents will be engaged in person-centered planning that is fully based upon their individual needs. In this planning process there is every reason to believe that the person can be relocated close to family and friends if that is their choice. They will choose the day services they want to participate in. They will experience the freedom of making real choices about their lives like never before.
There will be an advisory committee involved in the closing of the Jacksonville Developmental Center. Guardians, the individuals from JDC and other advocates should be represented on that committee. This has been the case in other closures.
This is a big step for Illinois and we must do all we can to ensure a safe transition to community living for the people at Jacksonville. We have an excellent opportunity to do the right thing for people with developmental disabilities and to be smart with precious taxpayer dollars.
The governor’s initiative is the right thing to do and the time is now.
— Tony Paulauski, executive director, The Arc of Illinois, Frankfort
Letters To The Editor : The State Journal-Register | Jan 23, 2012
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