Topic 4: Supportive Engagement and Empowerment
Now, let’s explore supportive engagement and empowerment. We are all unique in our individual experiences of the world. A person’s values, beliefs, and experiences shape how they engage with their support system. Understanding a person’s values, beliefs, and life experiences will enable you to be a better partner in creating meaningful, respectful, and empowering plans.
Often, people who use services are not seen or understood as whole individuals. They are seen as clients first. Someone who needs a service. We have not always been good at listening and learning. People often end up living lives that resemble what providers or others in their life believe their life should look like, rather than what they would create for themselves.
Scenario: Vincent
Vincent is a 72-year-old Army veteran who has always valued two things: living in his own home and staying connected to his community. He enjoys working with his hands — fixing lawnmowers and doing small repairs for neighbors. Those skills give him a sense of pride and purpose.
As Vincent began experiencing mobility challenges and chronic pain, his sister worried about him living alone. She suggested that he move into a residential facility where staff could help him throughout the day. While he appreciated the concern, Vincent was clear: “This is my home. My neighbors are my family. I’m not ready to leave.”
During a person-centered planning meeting, the team took time to really listen to Vincent’s priorities. They learned that what mattered most to him wasn’t just staying in his house — it was continuing to be useful and connected.
Together, they explored supports that would honor those priorities:
- Home modifications to increase safety
- A part-time in-home support worker
- Transportation to the local hardware shop and the Veterans Center
- A small business grant so he could continue repairing equipment from his garage
Through this planning, Vincent remained in his home — not because it was the most convenient choice for others, but because it was what he wanted for his life. His support team helped him maintain independence, keep his business going, and stay deeply involved in his community. “They didn’t just help me stay home — they helped me keep my purpose.”
Think Spot!
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