Values and Philosophy
What we believe
Our Core Values
Our Core Values reflect the shared perspectives of the people who make up Community Living Owen Sound & District — including self-advocates, families, staff, and leadership.
These values guide how we support people, build relationships, make decisions, and work toward a more inclusive community.
.01
Dignity & Worth of Every Person
Every person is valued for who they are.
We believe in getting to know the person first and understanding their unique needs, experiences, interests, and goals. This value recognizes the whole person — mind, body, and spirit.
“I am appreciated for who I am. My situation is unique and never like a textbook.”
.02
Mutual Respect & Healthy Relationships
We treat others as we would want to be treated and recognize that everyone has their own path in life. Our relationships are built on understanding differences, respecting choices, and valuing one another.
“Respect goes both ways in healthy relationships. I want to be respected and I will respect others.”
.03
Family & Friends
Our primary concern is for the person we support. We encourage and honour the involvement of family and friends as part of each person's circle of support.
“I am part of a circle of family and friends that is important to me.”
.04
Privacy & Confidentiality
We respect each person's privacy, dignity, and property. We treat personal information with the utmost care and confidentiality and follow Community Living Owen Sound & District's confidentiality policies.
“Respect everyone’s privacy and property.”
.05
Informed Choice
We provide information, resources, and support to help people make informed decisions about their lives. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to make choices that reflect their goals, preferences, and dreams.
“Support me in making informed choices so that I can fulfill my dreams.”
.06
Risk, Opportunity & Lifelong Learning
We believe people should have opportunities to learn, explore, take reasonable risks, and experience new things. We work to protect the safety and well-being of the people we support without unnecessarily limiting their opportunities to grow.
“There is good risk and bad risk. I want the opportunity to learn and try new things. If I mess up, nobody says I told you so, but I can learn from that experience.”
.07
Community Inclusion
We support people in building relationships, discovering opportunities, and developing a sense of belonging within their communities.
Community inclusion is built around three important ideas:
- Preference - What people like and want to do.
- Opportunity - What is available within the community.
- Choice - The ability to choose and participate in opportunities that reflect individual interests and preferences.
“Being included and participating in things I enjoy is important to me.”
make a change
Creating a community where everyone belongs
Every donation helps Community Living Owen Sound & District continue building an inclusive community where people can pursue their goals, make their own choices, build meaningful relationships, and live out their hopes and dreams.