Bancroft not only worked with [my son], but they worked with us; it became a feeling of pride that was so much support and we could go out and say ‘he belongs here.’ He belongs doing whatever he wants to do, and no I’m not going to keep him at home.’ They made me see that [he] is normal—he’s [my son], he’s normal, and without him we wouldn’t be who we are.
– A Bancroft Family Member
Families at Bancroft
When we reflect on what’s important in our lives, we tend to think of the things that bring us joy, meaning and fulfillment—the love of family and friends, feelings of accomplishment from work and other endeavors, the satisfaction of knowing that we make a difference. One’s “quality of life” depends on having an abiding sense of self-satisfaction and fulfillment.
An active and satisfying quality of life for the people we support has always been at the heart and soul of Bancroft’s services. Our founder, Margaret Bancroft, taught us well to appreciate the uniqueness of each person and the special circumstances that impact the totality of his or her life.
Today, to enhance this focus even further, Bancroft has adopted a person-centered model of care. The person-centered model emphasizes the strengths of each individual, and uses all available supports to help each person pursue his or her dreams. In addition, person-centered planning looks to the individual’s family, friends, staff and community—the person’s “circle of support”—to help meet his or her life goals.
The model emphasizes relationships–the basis for the circle of support. This group consists of those who genuinely care for the individual: family members, friends and others (e.g., staff members) who are identified by the person as important to his or her life. Clearly, families play a key role in the lives of those we serve, and we strongly encourage their positive involvement.
For our part, we pledge to maintain a steadfast focus on the dreams and desires of the people we serve— and the input of their representatives—to enable each individual to attain a satisfying, fulfilling life.
Please join us in this most important endeavor.