Connections of Central New York Inc. is a new agency in Syracuse that has devoted itself to developing personalized services to adults with developmental disabilities. Connections has been mentored by Onondaga Community Living, an agency in Syracuse that has dedicated itself to individualized supports and has received both national and international recognition for their work.

Personalized services begin with a person and not a program. Each person's dreams and life aspirations are identified, discussed, and appreciated before any services begin. Life supports and services are centered on the person and not the agency or a program. Each individual's services are unique to him/her and are tailored to his/her needs, desires, and dreams. Because of our beliefs and philosophy, each person chooses where to live and with whom they share their lives with. We believe in community life that is rich in the interconnectedness with others, not standardized services. "Inclusion" by proximity is not inclusion at all. You are only included when you are known, seen, and accepted as a respected and vital member of your community. Each person's story will look different and each person's services will expand out of his/her own personal story. Community resources will be sought along with the HCB5 Waiver, OPTS, or self determination to round out the person's needs.

Connections helps people fulfill needs that many of us take for granted, including:

* A home (not a residential placement)

* A meaningful life (not a standardized program or something prescribed for them)

* A person or people whom they enjoy and want to live with (not a vacancy where they know no one)

* To be a participant in their community (not just take a van ride to the grocery store)

* To be a part of natural relationships with neighbors, family and friends (not just with staff and other people with disabilities)

* To live, work and participate in a neighborhood that is familiar to them and where they may already have connections (not across town where they don't know the area or any people within it)