A home of our own that we choose …
A job where we earn an equitable wage …
A right to make decisions of our own …
A productive life where we are contributing members of the community.
This is what we all want, what we all need, and where we all find meaning. This is what everyone deserves—the right to live meaningful lives in the communities of their choice. Over the decades, these basic hopes and dreams have inspired CPR to enforce the rights of people with disabilities and underscored our commitment to:
- bring people home from segregated facilities;
- advance informed choice and self-determination; and
- ensure equal opportunity and full participation in community life.
For example, the Settlement Agreement in CPR’s landmark cross-disability case, Marsters v. Healey, will allow thousands of people with disabilities—including people with mental health conditions and seniors—to leave nursing facilities, return to their communities, and live in new homes with appropriate services. As Bill Henning, the Director of the Boston Center for Independent Living noted, CPR’s settlement will mean that “People don’t have to live, and die, in nursing facilities just to obtain needed supports.”
During this season of thanks, please consider supporting our efforts to make these dreams a reality for individuals with disabilities. Given the uncertainties of what lies ahead over the next few years, CPR deeply appreciates your support.
With deepest gratitude and good wishes for your health and safety,
Cathy E. Costanzo
Executive Director