NYHRC: A Housing Journey

BJ Stasio is a prominent figure in the field of developmental disabilities. He has served as the president of the New York State Self Advocacy Association. Currently, he is a peer specialist at the New York State Office for Persons with Developmental Disabilities. Known for his advocacy, training roles, and support for voting rights, BJ contributes significantly to nurturing a person-centered culture within organizations. As someone who receives support himself, he offers a unique perspective on systems concerning person-centeredness. BJ is also a writer and speaker, maintaining an active presence through his website, bjstasio.com.Episode Summary:In this episode of the person-centered podcast series BJ and host Chris Liuzzo focus on understanding the genuine essence of person-centered planning. BJ sheds light on the constraints that current systems impose, particularly through things like dropdown boxes in life plans, which he argues limit exploratory choices and person-centered approaches. BJ emphasizes the importance of going beyond these limitations to truly embrace person-centeredness, which involves understanding and supporting the individual beyond system-defined boxes. The podcast also touches upon the importance of having a supportive circle of trust and the risks of reverting to outdated, segregate practices if current systems do not evolve.Key Takeaways:Person-centered work should extend beyond system-driven constraints like dropdown boxes, advocating for individualized and expansive planning.BJ Stasio highlights the danger of tokenism and how genuine person-centeredness involves exploring what is possible outside predefined boxes.Circles of support—which BJ prefers to call circles of trust—play a crucial role in challenging individuals to grow by offering genuine feedback and support.The risk of system regression to segregationist practices is real, highlighting the importance of advocacy and storytelling to promote systemic change.BJ encapsulates self-reflection and progress with the mantra "I am enough," emphasizing his commitment to moving advocacy forward.Notable Quotes:"My life doesn't fit in a drop down box, nor do I being so large and I don't fit in the dropdown box.""Person centered work is about exploring what more is possible.""Why does the system even talk about dignity of risk when they don't allow you to experience it?""Systems are built to say no first and not think about the possibilities of saying yes, because no is safe.""Build your circle of trust and don't believe in you."Resources:BJ Stasio's Website: bjstasio.comListeners are encouraged to tune in to the full episode to gain deeper insights into developing truly person-centered systems and to stay updated with more episodes from this enlightening podcast series.

Mike Green specializes in community development, embodying decades of experience. Currently based in Denver, Mike’s professional journey began in small business, where he managed three operations before shifting to social work. Influenced by his daughter Annie's experiences, he developed a passion for fostering inclusive communities. He collaborated with the notable John McKnight on asset-based community development models, emphasizing the importance of community and relationships. Mike, now 78, shares his expertise globally, promoting the integration of service and community life.Episode Summary:In this insightful episode sponsored by the New York Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation, podcast host Chris Liuzzo engages with community development expert Mike Green. The discussion, rich with personal anecdotes and professional insights, delves into the heart of person-centered planning and community integration. Through his journey from small business owner to social work and community advocacy, Mike shares how personal experiences, particularly with his daughter Annie, shaped his approach to community building.Mike Green explores the concept of Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD), illustrating how genuine community connections can bring about meaningful change. He emphasizes that true power lies in relationships, not in meticulously crafted plans, and shares key strategies for building inclusive communities that welcome diverse contributions. Through poignant stories and thought-provoking observations, the episode underscores how person-centered work is mirrored in successful community integration, pivotal for fostering greater inclusivity. Mike closes with practical advice for families seeking to navigate and improve community interactions.Key Takeaways:Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) focuses on leveraging existing community assets to foster stronger connections and achieve positive change.Person-centered work mirrors successful community development techniques, emphasizing co-creation and discovery of individual and communal assets.Establishing a two-way support bridge between human services and community integration is essential for effective inclusion.Community members, often unfamiliar with the support needs of individuals with disabilities, must be guided on how to accommodate and welcome diverse abilities.Engaging everyday community networks is crucial for fostering inclusive environments where everyone’s contributions are valued.Notable Quotes:"Power is in relationships, not in plans." - Mike Green"The problem is that people don't know they need Annie, her contribution, her gifts, her presence in their life." - Mike Green"We need love and power and that power without love is abusive, love without power is anemic." - Mike Green"Every human being’s lived experience is that power is in relationships." - Mike Green"It’s about discovery, not about manufacture." - Mike GreenResources:New York Alliance for Inclusion and InnovationAsset-Based Community Development InstituteJohn McKnight - Co-founder of the ABCD InstituteTo dive deeper into how person-centered work can truly transform communities and individual lives, listen to this engaging episode. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on person-centeredness from our podcast series!

Carol Blessing is an expert person-centered planning and citizen-centered leadership. Until recently, she was a long-time employee at the Yang-Tan Institute on Employment and Disability at Cornell University. While there, she developed and implemented the Citizen Centered Leadership Development Course, and she has been a fervent advocate for social justice, equity, and inclusivity for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities for nearly 40 years. Carol is recognized for her impactful teaching and dedication to preserving the integrity and intention of person-centered planning.Episode Summary:Join host Chris Liuzzo as he delves into the heart of person-centered planning with Carol Blessing on the latest episode of this enlightening podcast series. Sponsored by the New York Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation, this episode sheds light on the core principles of person-centered work and the broader concept of citizenship as a universally inclusive idea.In this episode, Carol shares her insights from decades of experience in the field, discussing how person-centered planning has evolved over time. She emphasizes the original intent behind these methodologies, which focus on integrating individuals with disabilities into communities as citizens with equal access to opportunities. Carol also shares her thoughts on how person-centered work was co-opted over time, becoming more about checking boxes than truly celebrating shared humanity and social justice. Highlighting voices like Beth Mount and John O'Brien, Carol focuses on reclaiming person-centered planning's roots in social justice and inclusivity.Key Takeaways:Person-Centered vs. Citizen-Centered: Carol Blessing built upon person-centered planning by focusing on the broader concept of citizenship, aiming to cultivate a sense of shared humanity and inclusion.Core Ideals of Person-Centered Work: All people are born with inherent gifts and should have equal access to opportunities, emphasizing a shared responsibility toward community contribution.Challenges in Current Practices: The integration of person-centered planning into mandates risks losing its foundational purpose, becoming more of a task rather than an empowerment tool.Restoring the Ideal of Community: Person-centered planning should evolve to help community members feel comfortable supporting diversity and inclusion, breaking down barriers of unfamiliarity and fear.Role of Language: The importance of language in conveying the true essence of citizenship and how it affects perceptions of identity and belonging.Notable Quotes:"The idea of person-centered planning started to devolve…it started to become a thing we do for those people." – Carol Blessing"How do we cultivate that sense of shared humanity?" – Carol Blessing"All people are born with gifts, capacity, interests, and a higher purpose in life." – Carol Blessing"We do what's good for the whole because it makes sense.” – Carol Blessing"Communities are missing something when people with disabilities are not there." – Beth Mount as referenced by Carol BlessingResources:Yang-Tan Institute on Employment and Disability: Explore their resources and work on disability employment (no specific URL mentioned in the transcript).New York Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation: Further information about their initiatives and sponsorship.Stay tuned for more insightful episodes as the series continues to explore and deepen the conversation around person-centered planning and inclusivity. Don't miss out on the full episode for a comprehensive understanding of these vital concepts!

Hope Leet Dittmeier is the executive director of Mattingly Edge, a nonprofit organization based in Louisville, Kentucky, that is committed to providing person-centered supports. With a focus on social justice, Hope has dedicated her career to advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her leadership at Mattingly Edge emphasizes tailored, individualized services that are rooted in values of authentic person-centered planning. Hope's work is recognized for its clarity of purpose and commitment to inclusivity.In this episode, Chris Liuzzo talks with Hope Liet Dittmeyer about the true meaning of person-centered planning and how it is implemented at Mattingly Edge, a leading organization in Louisville, Kentucky. Hope shares insights into the challenges of working within a system that often inhibits person-centered work, and how Mattingly Edge remains dedicated to upholding its values despite these obstacles.The conversation delves into the importance of grounding person-centered planning in social justice, emphasizing that holistic support and individualized planning go beyond clinical techniques. Hope explains how Mattingly Edge recruits justice-minded individuals who are passionate about making meaningful changes in the lives of people with disabilities. She addresses the concept of "congregation" and the importance of resisting conventional methods that group people based on disability, fostering instead environments that enhance inclusion and community integration.Hope also highlights the significance of continuous, relationship-driven person-centered planning that evolves over time. She shares how Mattingly Edge employs innovative goal-setting strategies to explore valued opportunities for the individuals they support. Throughout the discussion, the focus remains on collaboration, trust-building, and perseverance in creating new pathways for community involvement and personal fulfillment.Key Takeaways:Person-centered planning should be grounded in social justice and aim to include individuals with disabilities in all aspects of life.Mattingly Edge prioritizes finding justice-minded employees to ensure clarity and commitment to person-centered values.Congregation, or grouping by disability, is avoided in favor of personalized support that fosters true community participation.Effective person-centered planning is an ongoing process requiring strong relationships and collaborative exploration of new opportunities.Courage and partnership are essential elements in achieving successful person-centered outcomes, enabling individuals to exceed previously set limitations.Resources:Mattingly Edge: Mattingly Edge WebsiteNew York Alliance for Inclusion and InnovationNew York State Council on Developmental DisabilitiesUS Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Community Living

John O'Brien was a renowned thought leader in the field of person-centered planning and disability advocacy. With extensive experience in promoting the rights and dignity of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, O'Brien contributed significantly to the conceptual and practical understanding of person-centered approaches. He is known for his deep insights into social justice and wealth in its many forms, beyond mere material success. O'Brien's work continues to inspire those committed to fostering inclusive communities and meaningful human connections.Episode Summary:In this insightful podcast episode, Chris Liuzzo engages with John O'Brien to uncover the multifaceted concept of real wealth, particularly in the context of person-centered work. The discussion delves into the multiple dimensions of wealth, including not just financial assets but also capabilities, networks, relationships, and spirit. These elements serve as the foundation for achieving a rich, meaningful life, particularly for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.As the conversation progresses, O'Brien sheds light on the pressing challenges facing this inclusivity effort by identifying the "enemies of real wealth." Through the lens of themes like social devaluation, individualism, and consumerism, he elaborates on these adversarial forces. O'Brien critiques the overemphasis on material wealth and individual effort, highlighting the need for interdependence and authentic human connections. This dialogue calls for awareness and mobilization against these challenges, promoting a more inclusive and supportive community infrastructure.Key Takeaways:Real wealth extends beyond material assets, encompassing capabilities, networks, relationships, and spirit.Social devaluation remains a cyclical threat to person-centered work, necessitating vigilance and proactive support systems.Individualism and consumerism can undermine community values, reducing human connections to transactional interactions.A focus on preference-driven choice can overshadow the deeper human aspirations for a fulfilled civic life.Addressing the crisis of care requires more than material solutions; acknowledgment of support providers' real wealth is crucial.Notable Quotes:"Real wealth, as John described it, comes in five forms: money, capabilities, networks, relationships, and spirit.""People with intellectual disabilities are an embodied sign of human interdependence.""Cynicism undermines spirit, erodes spirit, and individualism makes us afraid to reach out.""Our appreciation of what human flourishing can be about under conditions of interdependency collapses into what it costs for me to get my groceries.""We've got big adaptive challenges ahead of us. They're here now, but they're going to get bigger."Resources:New York Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation: official website (URL not mentioned in the transcript, but included for context)John O'Brien's writings and publications on person-centered planning and developmental disabilities (details not explicitly mentioned in transcript)Listen to the full episode for a profound exploration of how real wealth and person-centered planning can transform the lives of those with developmental disabilities. Stay tuned for more enlightening content and join us in our journey towards inclusivity and genuine human connection.

John O'Brien: John O'Brien was a renowned figure in the field of disabilities, celebrated for his contributions to person-centered planning and advocacy for people with disabilities and their families. Over his 50-year career, he engaged in writing, teaching, and consulting globally. John is considered one of the pioneers of person-centered planning alongside his wife, Connie Lyle O'Brien, and colleague Beth Mount. Known for his intellect, generosity, and humor, John was deeply respected in his field.Episode Summary:In this insightful episode, host Chris Liuzzo converses with the late John O'Brien about the concept of person-centered work, reflecting on John's impactful career and philosophy. Recorded in May 2025, shortly before John's passing, this discussion offers profound reflections on the notions of disability, dependence, and what constitutes a "good life." John details his thoughts on "real wealth" within person-centered planningJohn expands on the importance of shifting perspectives within disability services from simply providing protective oversight to forming relationships that drive shared responsibility in changing the world. He introduces the notion of "real wealth" as a framework comprising assets, capabilities, networks, relationships, and spirit. The conversation delves into the current challenges faced by the Medicaid-dependent support systems and argues for a broader understanding of wealth that includes but extends beyond material measures. John emphasizes an interdependent worldview, encouraging a focus on human flourishing, joy, and the intrinsic value of relationships and spirit in crafting fulfilling lives for people with disabilities.Key Takeaways:Shift in Perspective: Transition from protective service models to fostering relationships where there is shared responsibility for creating change.Concept of Real Wealth: Emphasizes non-material dimensions of wealth, including relationships and spiritual fulfillment, beyond just financial assets.Interdependence: Highlights the importance of acknowledging the interdependence inherent in human lives, especially evident in the experiences of people with disabilities.Adaptive Challenges: Discusses the current and future challenges facing Medicaid and support systems, pointing out the importance of recognizing broader societal roles and impacts.Emphasis on Human Flourishing: Advocates for a shift in dialogue from addressing basic needs to enriching lives through joy, relationships, and personal growth.Notable Quotes:"Together we are responsible for changing our world.""What is it to live a good, full life?""Eligibility is an asset, but it's only one.""People with intellectual disabilities are an embodied sign of human interdependence.""We need to be conscious of our real wealth."Resources:New York Alliance for Inclusion and InnovationNew York State Council on Developmental DisabilitiesMedicaid and Social Security ProgramsFor a deeper understanding of John O'Brien's ideas and to explore more on creating a person-centered world for people with disabilities, listen to the full episode. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions in this podcast series.

Carol Blessing is an expert in person-centered planning and inclusion. Recently retired as a Senior Extension Associate at Cornell University, heshas made significant contributions to person-centered work, notably as the author and director of Cornell's Citizen Centered Leadership course. She has collaborated with prominent figures such as John O'Brien and Beth Mount, contributing to works like "Conversations on Citizenship and Person Centered Work." Carol also co-created the person-centered planning method known as "Frameworks for Planning" with Connie Farrell. Her insights into developing community through the 5A's commitments are influential in the field of developmental disabilities.Episode Summary:In this episode of our podcast series on person-centered planning, host Chris Liuzzo invites Carol Blessing, an influential voice in the world of inclusion and developmental disabilities, to discuss the intricacies of person-centered planning. This engaging conversation explores the practical applications of developing community through Carol's 5A's commitments model. Listen as Carol shares her journey and elaborates on the motivation behind her influential work. Carol Blessing delves deep into the concept of the 5A's commitments—Anchors, Allies, Assistance, Associations, and Agendas—that are vital to building community and enhancing the lives of people with disabilities. Coupled with the influence of John and Connie Lyle- O'Brien's work, Carol discusses the significance of moving individuals from a consumer to a contributor role within society. The episode highlights her unique perspective on how person-centered planning can create inclusive communities that recognize and value every individual's gifts and contributions.Key Takeaways:5A's Model: The 5A's—Anchors, Allies, Assistance, Associations, and Agendas—are fundamental roles in building supportive communities for people with disabilities.Empowerment through Contribution: Moving individuals from consumers to contributors can enhance community life and foster inclusivity.Person-Centered Planning Principles: Key ideals include discovering personal gifts, ensuring equal access to opportunities, and recognizing the responsibility of giving back to the community.Action-Oriented Plans: Successful person-centered planning requires actionable steps and accountability to avoid plans being forgotten.Community Involvement Importance: Increasing community involvement through intentional planning supports societal change and structural improvements.Notable Quotes: 1."Community building is an intentional move into a new space." 2."Most people won't say no when you ask them to do what they know how to do." 3."Citizenship is at the heart of person-centered work and it is why we do person-centered work." 4."Choose to dwell in possibility. We can't predict what will happen, but we make space for it, whatever it is." 5."Remember the wisdom of John and Connie's book, we are members of each other and together we can make a world of difference."Resources:Unfolding Capacity - Book discussing community-building with people with developmental disabilities.Conversations on Citizenship and Person Centered Work - Collaborative work with John O'Brien.The New York Alliance for Inclusion and InnovationJohn and Connie O'Brien's chapter: "Members of each Other"Listeners are encouraged to immerse themselves in the full podcast episode to gain further insights and are invited to tune in regularly for more enlightening discussions in this series.

Kirk Hinkelman is the Director of Creative Design and Wellbeing at LifeWorks, a renowned human service agency based in San Diego focused on supporting people with disabilities. Kirk has transitioned through various roles within LifeWorks, including coordinator and associate director, as he evolved both professionally and personally. His innovative role centers around creative expression and mindfulness, fostering an environment that emphasizes inner conditions for personal and organizational growth. Kirk is a certified mindfulness meditation teacher, passionately integrating these practices into his work to facilitate well-being for both the teams he leads and the individuals they support.Episode Summary:In this enlightening episode, host Chris Liuzzo and Kirk Hinkelman discuss the inner conditions of persons engaged in person-centered planning and their impact on the process. They explore how one’s mindfulness and personal alignment impact the ability to develop relationship and engage in deep listening, the heart of person-centered planning.Kirk's emphasizes the intersection of finding one's authentic core and assisting others on their journeys towards achieving a life of purpose and alignment. This dialogue unpacks the common challenges faced within the service system and the transformative potential of mindfulness and inner work.Key Takeaways:Inner Alignment Is Critical: Achieving personal alignment and focusing on inner conditions is crucial for effective person-centered planning.Beyond Bureaucracy: The episode underscores the importance of personal introspection over external systems and regulations for meaningful progress.Belonging and Authenticity: Kirk elaborates on the need for individuals and providers to experience a genuine sense of belonging and authenticity.Mindfulness in Practice: The integration of mindfulness and meditation provides a foundation for both personal peace and professional efficacy.Collaborative Approach: Kirk advocates for a partnership model in service delivery, emphasizing mutual empowerment and shared growth.Notable Quotes:1."If my job as a person-centered planning practitioner is to help someone else get to a place where they can tend to their inner condition… it’s important for me to have a good sense of what my inner condition is."2."Do I belong here? Well, the answer is yes, we all belong. We innately belong because we were born."3."At the core and the center of person-centered planning, then as a practitioner, it's really important for me to have a good sense of what my inner condition is."4."Person-centered planning is a quality of relationship and a quality of listening."5."Your heart and mind speaking to one another… will lend itself more to being involved with people who are on that same path."Resources:LifeWorks San Diego: lifeworkssd.org (URL inferred but not provided in transcript)New York Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation: nyalliance.org (URL inferred but not provided in transcript)Embark on a journey of mindful transformation by listening to this engaging episode. Discover how aligning personal and professional selves can revolutionize the way we support individuals with disabilities. Stay tuned for more episodes that continue to challenge and inspire perspectives in person-centered planning.