Olmstead v. L.C. is a U.S. Supreme Court case that laid the groundwork for people with disabilities to live their lives as fully included members of the community. The case addressed the Americans with Disabilities Act’s "integration mandate," which requires all public entities, including the state of North Carolina, to "administer services, programs, and activities" for people with disabilities in the most integrated setting appropriate to the person’s needs. In the Olmstead ruling, the Supreme Court also urged states to develop a "comprehensive, effectively working plan" for transitioning people to the community. You can read more and share this one-page document on Olmstead.
In recognition of the 23rd anniversary of the Olmstead ruling, NCDHHS is spotlighting stories that embody the principles of Olmstead in partnership with the North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities and First in Families of North Carolina.
Learn more about the importance of supported and community living by viewing the stories below and help honor this anniversary by sharing them with your networks:
- Selena’s word of advice: “If I can do this, I know they can do it […] strive to try to live on your own, you can do it.” Watch her story, part of NCCDD’s Supported Living: Making the Difference initiative.
- Personal support networks are crucial to building relationships based on personal connection and caring. Watch this video to learn more about FIFNC’s Lifetime Connections program.
- Richard enjoys living on his own and being his own boss thanks to supported community living. Watch his story.
- Michael is living a full life in the community and said he loves his job so much he said he wished he could go to work over the weekend. Watch Michael’s story.
- Sam is a musician from Raleigh and works at Pet Supplies Plus. Watch Sam’s story.
- Transitions to Community Living opens doors. After just one year of living an inclusive life in the community with housing and needed supports and services, James’ life has “completely changed.” Watch more on Vimeo.
North Carolina’s Olmstead plan incorporates years of work across NCDHHS and North Carolina to refine and re-define policies and programs so they more clearly align with the U.S. Supreme Court’s imperative in the Olmstead ruling regarding community integration. The plan builds on the foundation of NCDHHS’ Transition to Community Living and Money Follows the Person programs. It also expands the work to address social determinants of health that are at the heart of NCDHHS’ Healthy Opportunities initiative. Visit our website for more information about North Carolina’s Olmstead Plan.