​​Developmental Disabilities Shared Vision​​

Alaskans share a vision of a flexible system in which each person directs their own supports, based on their strengths and abilities, toward a meaningful life in their home, their job and their community. Our vision includes supported families, professional staff and services available throughout the state now and into the future. Shared Vision Statement for the Developmental Disability System in Alaska

Priority #1

Every person directs their own supports: Based on his or her strengths and abilities, the person receiving services will decide when, who and how services are provided. Families and other team members will help with supported decision making so that the person can direct services as much as they are able. This includes a commitment to making services available in the community where the person chooses to live as well as honoring the family's role in the lives of children receiving services.

Priority #2

Services will support lives with meaning: Our system helps people create lives with meaning, purpose, and inclusion as well as respecting individual choices. This will look different for each person. Opportunities for meaningful relationships and natural supports are highly valued. As Alaskans, we will support the diversity of cultures of people receiving services in our state.

Priority #3

Our system values the role of direct support professionals: Direct support professionals will have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform job duties. This includes access to education and supportive supervision. A good direct support professional is engaged and assists the person to lead a meaningful