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Abstract

Affirming social relationships and belonging in community are known to have positive mental and physical health benefits. Unfortunately, citizens with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have significant barriers to being included in their community. Over the past half century, various policies and legislation have been enacted in the United States in an effort to address the changing societal belief that individuals with IDD should be engaged as part of their community rather than separated, receiving institutional care. These policies influence funding and program designs for nonprofit organizations supporting people with IDD. This article offers (a) a literature review of research regarding effectiveness in measurement of community inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, (b) an analysis of several U.S. policies intended to improve community inclusion, (c) considerations of the impact of Michigan’s implementation of the most current federal legislation, and (d) associated recommendations for nonprofit organizations to create public value by affecting progress in community inclusion.

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