It is our belief that every adult with special needs has the need and the right to participate to the fullest extent of his/her ability in any and all decisions and processes which impact on his/her personal and community life. Each individual brings unique strengths, competencies, and abilities to the goal of living as a fulfilled and competent person both at home and in the community. Based on these principles Oakdale established a residential program for special needs adults based on a commitment to a totally integrated community living model. Our goal id to help establish a quality of life through competencies and a decision making process for each individual of Oakdale that frees that individual from client hood status. We do this by providing support that enables one to formulate and to realize rational expectations concerning freedom and control over one’s own life.

     The focus of Oakdale’s philosophy is to encourage the creation of a network of formal and informal supports needed by an individual with a disability to meet the day-to-day demands of living in his/her home and community. Most important is the informal networking in the community which provided opportunities to develop unpaid relationships which are independent of the professional service system. It is the interaction of the individual with the “real” world that fosters independence, dignity, and personal fulfillment. This integration also enhances change in societal attitudes and expectations on the part of the greater community. In the larger perspective of the community living model we believe that most of the limitations on people with disabilities are imposed by societal expectations and beliefs rather than being intrinsic to the individual’s functional deficit. It is only through the belief that an individual engages hi/her environment in a holistic and reciprocal manner that the full complexity of an individual’s life can be understood.

      At the Oakdale Foundation we believe that adults with special needs have the right to participate in all aspects of decisions that impact their lives. One of the defining characteristics of the Oakdale Foundation is the value and respect afforded to our residents as capable, independent adults with the freedom and support to make their own decisions about their lives and relationships.

   “A defining characteristic of the services provided by Oakdale was the value and respect afforded to individuals as capable, independent adults. All five of the individuals participating in this review process articulated clear satisfaction with their current lifestyles and living arrangements. People were particularly appreciative of the freedom and support they felt they had to make their own decisions about their own lives and relationships…… Oakdale promoted people’s ability to live in the community and take full advantage of the range of opportunities available to any adult. Staff supports emphasized encouraging and assisting people to understand the natural consequences of their own decisions and actions. The agency worked very well with people to understand the importance of maintaining positive reputations as members of the community and workforce, as well as healthy relationships with family, friends, and neighbors. Supports provided to each person were individualized and relevant to the person’s unique needs and interests.” (12/2/2001, QUEST report). .