OSSA's Vision for the Future of Disability Services in Oregon

Sometimes, in the midst of change, it is hard to see the way forward.  Oregon's system of services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities once felt like it had a clear identity as a national leader for progressive, community-based service.  We closed down institutions.  We gave control to the people using the services. We showed that giving people self-determination can not only be right, it can also be cost-effective, good business.  Somewhere, in the crush of change and hurtling, forward momentum, we have lost the clarity of that identity.

Now is the time to work to reclaim that pioneering spirit at the heart of our state.  Make no mistake, it will take work--no one else in the nation is using the K Plan in the same way that Oregon has.  We're out on the grand stage, we're under the watchful eye of the national Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and we need to make this work.

It is in the spirit of collaboration, excellence, and service that we offer our Vision for the Future.  As is stated in our Opening Thoughts on page 2, this is "intended to be a starting point for discussion," not a perfect, finished product.  We start with the vision and we fill in the rest, together.

Take a look, let your gears turn, and share your thoughts with us.

Thank you!