Christopher Lyons is the CEO of AIM Services Incorporated, a role he has held since 2018. With a rich background as a trial attorney, Christopher has over 25 years of legal experience across various U.S. jurisdictions. He has also served in the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities and has worked as national counsel for a major human services insurance program. Christopher has significantly expanded AIM's reach, supporting over 4,000 individuals across the state. He is well-versed in topics like dignity of risk, provider liability, and standards of care in human services.

Episode Summary:

In this thought-provoking episode of DSP Talk, host Asheley Blaise engages with Christopher Lyons, CEO of AIM Services Inc., to delve into the often overlooked right of "dignity of risk." This episode explores how individuals in the developmental disabilities field can benefit from embracing risks rather than being shielded by fear and liability concerns. Christopher extensive knowledge and experience to this discussion, making this episode a must-listen for anyone involved in the caregiving and support sectors.

The discussion unveils a transformative approach to person-centered support that prioritizes autonomy and self-determination over traditional, risk-averse paradigms. Christopher emphasizes the importance of recognizing individuals with disabilities as unique people entitled to their agency and capable of making decisions involving risk. Through illustrative examples and legal insights, he effectively advocates for a shift from a control-focused model to a supportive one, empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives. The episode also includes practical insights into moving away from a risk-averse culture towards one that champions dignity and autonomy.

Key Takeaways:

• The concept of "dignity of risk" involves balancing safety and the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities to make autonomous choices, even if that involves risk.
• A paradigm shift from agency-driven to person-driven models is essential for supporting autonomy and fostering genuine inclusion for individuals with disabilities.
• Legal liability should not overshadow the importance of supporting individuals to experience life fully, learn from failures, and achieve personal success.
• Collaborative decision-making, transparency, and documentation are vital for balancing risk and ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned on supporting individual autonomy.

Notable Quotes:

• "At the core of our human dignity is our ability to own our own successes, to have the results of our choices, our free will."
• "It's not just enough to invite somebody to the table. You have to believe they belong there."
• "We are not a guarantor of the safety of the people we support."
• "Never say no, always say how, and then work through that together."
• "Support isn't control; it's support. Shed your selfish fear."

Resources:

• AIM Services Inc. Website
• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Olmstead Rights

Tune in to this enlightening episode for a thorough understanding of how embracing dignity of risk can lead to richer, more autonomous lives for individuals in the developmental disabilities community. Subscribe for more insightful discussions on DSP Talk, where every episode aims to redefine support systems for the betterment of the community.

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Explore the essential themes of rights, responsibilities, and advocacy for people with developmental disabilities with Asheley Blaise in DSP Chat. This episode simplifies complex topics like self-advocacy, supported decision making, and creating life plans, emphasizing that people with disabilities are active decision-makers and self-advocates. Learn about promoting independence while respecting autonomy and humanity. Discover how life plans reflect personal goals and choices and understand the balance between support and control. This discussion ensures compassionate service delivery that prioritizes the dignity and respect of every individual.

Key Takeaways:

• Human Rights: Individuals with developmental disabilities have the fundamental right to be treated with dignity and respect, make choices, and be active in their communities.
• Self-Advocacy: This involves empowering individuals to speak up for themselves in various ways, including non-verbal communication.
• Supported Decision-Making: This respectful approach supports individuals in making their choices without relinquishing control over their decisions.
• Life Plans: These plans should be developed collaboratively with the individual, reflecting their goals and desires.
• Responsibilities Parallel Rights: Both individuals and support staff have responsibilities that empower and safeguard rights, advocating with individuals being supported.

Resources:

· OPWDD/SANYS Rights, Responsibilities and Advocacy Booklet | Office for People With Developmental Disabilities

Stay connected with DSP Chat for more insig

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Katrina Hazell is a dynamic motivational speaker, life coach, and author, known for her inspiring book "Special Education to College the Katrina Story, Breaking Those Glass Ceilings". As the founder and Executive Director of Disability Champion Mentoring Network Incorporated, Katrina is dedicated to empowerment, self-direction, and disability advocacy. She holds the position of Vice Chair of the Council on Developmental Disabilities and serves as an advocate lead for the Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation. Katrina is also a graduate of Kingsborough Community College, where she earned her Associate's degree.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of DSP Talk, host Asheley Blaise welcomes Katrina Hazell, a prominent motivational speaker and life coach, to discuss self-direction for people with disabilities. As individuals set new goals for the year, Katrina delves into the significance of self-directing one’s life, focusing on using one's unique gifts and strengths rather than conforming to external expectations. Katrina shares how she navigates the systems designed for individuals with disabilities and underlines the importance of supportive relationships with Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to foster true independence.

Throughout the episode, Asheley and Katrina explore how being in control of one's own goals translates into daily life, highlighting the need for a balance between independence and support. Katrina shares her experiences advocating for herself, such as her journey with supported decision-making, and the impact it has had on bolstering her confidence. By underscoring the importance of emotional support and positive reinforcement, Katrina emphasizes building empowering partnerships rooted in trust and accountability. As Katrina shares her vision for a life that transcends societal limitations, Asheley encourages listeners to focus on the bigger picture, creating a life guided by one's own aspirations.

Key Takeaways:

• Self-Direction Empowerment: Katrina emphasizes that effective self-direction begins internally and is strengthened by supportive networks that truly recognize and believe in one's goals.
• Daily Goal Control: Effective DSP relationships enable individuals to retain control over their goals by offering accountability and positive support, ensuring alignment within provided systems.
• Partnership Dynamics: Empowering DSP partnerships involve sharing goals, fostering trust, and providing accountability support, ensuring that individuals can achieve their aspirations.
• Bigger Picture Perspective: Katrina advises that both individuals and DSPs should focus on creating and pursuing a holistic vision for life, transcending system-imposed limitations.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I do not allow myself to feel limited or dwell on my disability. Instead, I focus within my gifts, abilities, and superpowers." - Katrina Hazell
2. "I knew I didn't want guardianship, but a village to support me along the way." - Katrina Hazell
3. "A truly empowering partnership with a DSP is having accountability support where you can see yourself thrive." - Katrina Hazell
4. "Create the bigger picture of the life that you want to see within yourself, not what the system sees for you." - Katrina Hazell

Resources:

• Episode Transcript
• Special Education to College The Ketrina Story: Breaking Those Glass Ceilings
• Disability Champion Mentoring Network
• The Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation

For more inspiring discussions and insights into disability advocacy and self-direction, tune into the full episode and stay engaged with DSP Talk for future episodes.

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