Self-determination is a powerful and historic term. It was perhaps best described by a former Milwaukee school teacher, Golda Meir, who as the first Premier of Israel said, "We want only that which is given naturally to all people of the world — to be masters of our own fate, in cooperation and friendship with others."
When the IRIS (Include, Respect, I Self-Direct) program for long-term care in Wisconsin was developed, it was inspired by the concept of self-determination – enabling people who select IRIS to have more choice and control to live a free and independent life. The core values of self-determination drive the IRIS program in Wisconsin:
The independent living, aging in place and self-advocacy movements all encouraged the concept of self-determination, realizing that those in need of long-term care are in the best position to know what they want and need in order to live a connected life in their communities. Wisconsin has been a leader in working to enable those who are aging, and people with physical and developmental disabilities and their families to be masters of their own fates, in cooperation with others, and with the support they need. Connections is committed to providing that support.
For more information on Connections, call 1-844-520-1712 or email connections@lsswis.org.
An IRIS Consultant Agency by Lutheran Social Services.
Call toll-free: 844-520-1712
6737 W Washington Street, Suite 2275 West Allis, WI 53214
185 East Walnut, Suite 130B Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
1904 Winnebago St Madison, Wisconsin 53704
120 S. Barstow St. Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701
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