151. The Right to Choose: Achieving Residential Alternatives in the Community.
- Author
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National Association for Retarded Citizens, Arlington, TX., Patterson, Gene, and Byrne, Richard
- Abstract
The handbook gives guidelines for the development, operation, and evaluation of a community based system of residential facilities for mentally retarded (MR) persons. Directions are given which explain the step-by-step procedure for planning in any community. The idea of a residential service delivery system is described in terms of small unit-homes, basic principles, and program flexibility to aid development of MR persons in the mainstream of the community. Specified are procedures for collecting information on individual needs before planning group homes such as child or vocational development homes, and residences for the elderly. Getting started is said to involve activities such as defining the problem, making a survey, planning a budget, and presenting a solution to the problem. Noted is the need for help from groups such as local social and governmental agencies, and trade unions. Suggested for laying the groundwork to move bureaucracies are public education strategies such as targeting the audience and using the most direct communication medium. Guidelines for getting what is needed cover legislation, financial support, and restrictive codes. Included among aspects of service administration are development of a coordination mechanism, analysis of in-home activities, and provision for volunteers in each facility. Considered for operating the program are procedures for resident selection and education, and staff education. The evaluation process is said to include establishment of criteria and responsibility for regular monitoring of services. (Included in appendixes are a community services checklist and sample planning budgets for community families of varying numbers.) (MC)
- Published
- 1973