This paper describes factors which influence the development of relationships between individuals with disabilities and "typical" people. People with disabilities are often separated from their families and communities, cast into roles of dependency and passivity, and kept at a social distance from other community members. Typical…

This monograph presents four papers which focus on the experiences of people with disabilities in terms of their personal relationships and belonging to a social network. The first three papers are authored by Zana Marie Lutfiyya. An overview article, "Reflections on Relationships between People with and without Disabilities," describes some of…

This case study is based on a 1988 site visit to the Orion Community, in which a group of nondisabled and disabled people have chosen to live and work with each other in Chester County, Pennsylvania. Orion's founding is described, beginning with an informal support group of professionals, parents, advocates, and members of Camphill (agricultural…

The report, one of a series describing innovative practices in integrating people with disabilities into community life, describes the Gig Harbor (Washington) group home which serves five severely retarded adults. The home is staffed by five people, two teams and the Director, with each team living in the house on alternate weeks. Topics covered…

This report examines the quality of life for individuals with mental retardation who live in a range of residential service settings in New York, and explores issues related to the provision of housing and appropriate supports. Five settings were studied: (1) an intentional Christian community where three individuals with mental retardation live…