Discusses why individuals with disabilities participate in sport, introducing the broad array of sport opportunities available to them. A four-level continuum of sport opportunities for individuals with disabilities is described, providing examples of implementation at each level. Questions, challenges, and suggestions for program organizers are…

This longitudinal study evaluated changes in the quality of life experienced by 36 residents (mean age 61 years) of community-based homes after leaving an institutional setting for individuals with disabilities. Data showed that considerable improvement followed the move to community-based homes, especially in the use of community facilities and…

A field study demonstrated a process for determining the appropriate level of community-based consultative support for families, professionals, and paraprofessionals working to integrate children with autism. The resultant differentiated service model calls for an interministerial service plan to facilitate various transitions. (Author/JDD)

This paper explores the origins, differences, and similarities of community-based rehabilitation, which developed in southern countries, and independent living, which developed in northern countries, for persons with disabilities. Although both approaches share a broad definition of rehabilitation and values emphasizing community and consumer…

The Special Education and Treatment Program in Frederick County, Maryland, uses storytelling as a connection between reading and healing for elementary-age children with serious emotional disturbances. Increased academic and emotional development is achieved through interagency cooperation, curriculum compacting, academic follow-up, therapeutic…

Provides an overview of a seven-step process in the development of a cooperative school and community incentive program designed to increase safety belt use among high school students. The process involved community leaders, school officials, students, and local law enforcement personnel in its design, implementation, and evaluation. (GLR)

Establishing community-based rehabilitation projects for visually impaired populations in developing countries in the South Pacific presents challenges in communication, logistics, security, and other factors. Program development must consider differences in geography, population distribution, resources, cultural and religious values, and needs.…

Describes a literacy project (Preschooler's Outreach Program) sponsored by a public library and staffed by students from the children's literature classes at a Texas university. Shows that college students participating in this project have unique insights into literacy acquisition among young children and are able to put into immediate practice…

Describes efforts in South Florida to address school safety in eight troubled urban schools. The Coalition for Community Empowerment offered at-risk youth and their families a community-based program focused on strengthening family-support systems and maximizing the use of community resources through effective partnerships. (SLD)

Presents how the state of Kentucky has approached the escalating expenditures and overcrowded programs and facilities for juvenile justice and mental health care services. Discusses four state legislative initiatives developed to care for at-risk and delinquent youth that have greatly enhanced and expanded Kentucky's system of community-based…

Explores possibilities of inner-city networking, and provides a description of the federal government's Telecommunications and Information Infrastructure Assistance Program (TIIAP). The authors also enumerate the challenges faced by inner-city communities establishing such networks and describes TIIAP-funded programs meeting those challenges that…

Describes service-learning program with opportunities for students to make a difference. Notes four core areas of the service-learning model: (1) preparation, including identifying, choosing and planning activities; (2) action; (3) reflection, both individual and group; and (4) recognition, both individual and group. (LBT)

Describes the goals and service components of Educare, a collaborative community project in southeast Missouri since 1995, to enhance school readiness of children from birth to 3 years from low-income families. Discusses working with families, community agencies and local services, and early childhood professionals. Also explores…

Describes changes in the construction, renovation, and utilization of school buildings to accommodate several new trends in education: Technological intervention, specialized facilities, schools as the center of the community, instructional areas, unneeded excess space, leases, and build-to-suit. (PKP)

The Healthy Nations initiative supported 14 American Indian and Alaska Native communities in their efforts to reduce the harm done by drug and alcohol abuse. Three programs in Pueblo, Navajo, Apache, and Alaskan communities are described, that entail community organizing, youth recreational activities, indigenous role models, adventure activities,…