The Pursuit of Happiness: When Writing Your Life Story Don’t Allow Anyone Else To Hold The Pen!
Hosted by: Dr. Tom Pomeranz, EdD. President and CEO of Universal Lifestiles
Instructional Level: Intermediate
The speaker will share with participants the critical importance in building a circle of supports establishing the foundation for a quality of life. He discusses what it means to have a “a happy life.”. A “happy life” results by assuring all individuals are encouraged to give and do for others- an enviable life. A life that includes the presence of friends, family and staff who promote options, support opportunities and demonstrate optimism; the three O’s necessary to attain a happy life. The session emphasizes supporting people in realizing a happy life is not merely a matter if thinking outside the box – we may have to blow up the box. The premise for a quality of life is the realization of happiness. Happiness can be attained when families, friends and support staff play a role in nurturing the individual in transitioning through their significant life events. Dr. Pomeranz explores the Core Quality of Life domains. In actualizing these domains, the individual has the opportunity to participate in and contribute to their communities, as well as the ability and opportunity to exercise control over the services, supports and other assistance that they need and desire.
Learning Objectives:
- Define a “happy life” for individuals with IDD
- Be able to state the four Core Quality of Life Domains
- Explain why giving and doing for others as part of community inclusion promotes happiness
