Plenary Session on Spiritual Health

A Place for All of Me and All of Us: Rekindling the Spirit in Services and Supports
Bill Gaventa, M.Div., Director, Community and Congregational Supports,
The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities

The role of spirituality in holistic care is receiving increasing attention in healthcare, as scientific researchers and clinicians in many disciplines work with pastoral caregivers, religious communities, alternative medicines and therapies, and culturally competent supports, all of which tap the power of spirituality to impact health and healing. How might that research and practice enhance services and supports for people with developmental disabilities and their families? What have we learned from pioneers like Jean Vanier and the L’Arche communities about the importance of paying attention to the role of spirit and faith? What are we beginning to learn from self advocates? What are the implications for professional caregivers, providers, advocates, families, and communities?