Description of a Community Involvement Program for Persons with Special Needs

This article describes an extensive community involvement program which is intended to: (1) provide year-round social and recreational opportunities for persons with special needs; (2) support and empower families of these persons; and (3)facilitate community awareness and knowledge about persons with special needs in the Fort Knox (KY) community and region. Initially, the background and context of program development is presented, followed by analysis of need for the progrma, and then delineation of guiding principles which have provided programmatic focus. Next, central program elements are outlined to demonstrate its complexity, integrity, and replicability. Finally, a discussion of the program's implications for other communities is provided.