How can it be that one state is getting sued by the Federal Government for providing sheltered services with no choice and the state that shares its border, economy, and lifestyle is receiving acclaim for individuals working in the community with a broad array of choices? I believe the difference is focus. My Uncle Art, who worked in the Washington DVR system, always told his staff to “keep your eye on the client”. His sage words were passed on down through the system and heeded by most. Fixing our focus on the person and what they want to do means not losing sight of the goal. Indeed, in my opinion, this is the key.
What I appreciate about Morningside staff is that they do focus
on the person with a disability - each and every day. That is why we closed our sheltered workshop because
by an overwhelming majority our clients wanted to work in the community. Focus is also why we enjoy the position of being
the best in the state at serving our clients in jobs in the community, even
those who require the most support.
When I have the opportunity to meet with clients at their
job or event I am always so pleased to hear how much the job means to them. The conversation is so much more positive and,
well, normal. When I visit a worksite to
award an employer our Outstanding Employer Award, there is such a definite
sense of pride, accomplishment and self-worth as I congratulate the employee on
a job well done!
If indeed a person with a disability in a sheltered workshop
has not been exposed to another work environment it is incumbent upon us, the
professionals, to assist them in seeing the possibilities away from their
current environment and integrated with their neighbors and fellow citizens. Frankly, the support, connection, and interaction
are much more positive in a community job than a sheltered workshop job – and I
know this from experience.
So the solution that may sound too simplistic is rather
simple “keep your eye on the client” to ensure they have the same opportunities
as everyone else.
For more information on the lawsuit here is an article in The
Oregonian:
