Mission Statement

YAI/NIPD Network Mission Statement

The mission of the YAI/National Institute for People with Disabilities Network is to build brighter futures for people with developmental and learning disabilities and their families through person-centered planning, self determination, state-of-the-art programs, and effective advocacy.We believe that every person, at every age and level of ability, has the potential for growth.

• We hold that each individual is entitled to the same dignity, respect, and opportunities as all other members of society and that consumers, staff, families, and friends are to be treated with respect and dignity.
• We are firmly committed to helping the people we serve achieve their potential for individuality, independence, productivity, and inclusion in their communities.
• We believe that our staff is our most important resource. We are therefore committed to promoting the involvement and participation of our staff in the management of the agency and to facilitating the growth of our staff through education, training, and supervision.
• We recognize the importance of building and developing partnerships with consumers, families, staff, friends, the corporate sector, and government. We know that "together we are better!"
• We firmly believe that information is power. Consequently, we are strongly committed to empowering the people we serve, staff, families, and the professional community by providing the most up-to-date information and strategies.
• We believe that great accomplishments are achieved through teamwork and encourage our staff to join us in creating an environment that is characterized by respect, kindness, effective communication, and a positive approach.
• Our management philosophy is "participatory management." All staff members are encouraged to express their views directly, constructively, and positively to their supervisor and all other managers, as they deem necessary, without any fear of retribution.
• Above all, YAI/National Institute for People with Disabilities Network is committed to the pursuit of excellence.
• We pledge to maintain the highest level of excellence, professionalism, and sensitivity in all that we do.