Wednesday
February 22, 2012
4:09 pm
February 22, 2012
4:09 pm
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ABOUT US
RISE is a non-profit, consumer-controlled, community-based,cross-disability, non-residential, self-help organization designed and operated within the local community by/for individuals with disabilities.
MISSION
RISE promotes the full inclusion, equal opportunity, and participation of persons with disabilities in every aspect of community life. People with disabilities have the right and ability to make choices affecting their lives, the right to take risks, the right to fail, and the right to succeed.
PHILOSOPHY
The independent living philosophy is founded on principles of self-determination, self help, and consumer choice. People with disabilities have absolute control over their lives. They make choices from an array of acceptable options that improve decision making skills, increase self-confidence, and minimize reliance on others in performing daily activities. This invigorates their desire to achieve community inclusion, fulfill a broad range of social roles, and independently manage their own affairs by minimizing physical and psychological dependency upon others.
FIVE TENETS OF INDEPENDENT LIVING
Consumerism: The consumer is the locus of control. Those who know best the needs of people with disabilities are the people themselves. The Consumer can best determine what they want for themselves. Opposite of the "Medical Model".
Freedom of Choice: Making a life decision requires unbiased information on all options. Family members, caseworkers, and medical providers don't always know "what's best".
Dignity of Risk: Learning requires taking risks. If you are making "Informed Choices" you understand the risks and consequences. You'll never know what works and what doesn't if you never try.
Least Restrictive Environment: Modern sociologists define "disability" as the interaction between a person's body and their environment. The environment we live in must adapt to our bodies.
Individual Paradigm: What skills does the consumer already possess? What knowledge does the consumer already have? How can this skill set be useful in achieving his or her goals? What information and skills does the consumer need to acquire to accomplish his or her goals.?
RISE IS A MEMBER OF THE FOLLOWING STATE and NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
- Coalition of Texans with Disabilities(CTD)
- National Council on Independent Living (NCIL)
- Texas Association of Centers for Independent Living (TACIL)
- Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL)