Bill & Barbara Harper have been pioneers in the development of community-based service options for people with developmental disabilities and their families. In 1952, when their second son, Charlie, was born, professionals routinely advised new parents of a baby with Down Syndrome to put the child in an institution and forget about him. Bill & Barbara had a different vision for their children and it was the same vision for all of their boys, including Charlie. They wanted their sons to be able to live as full, productive and independent lives as they chose, and they saw no reason why other people with disabilities couldn’t share in that vision. If the supports Charlie and others needed to accomplish their goals weren’t there, they created them. Forming organizations, seeking funding, pounding nails, serving on boards—whatever it took. Living Opportunities was honored to acknowledge founder Bill Harper, recently retired from the Board of Directors, with the Volunteer of the Year award at the May 2009 Livin’ Lovin’ Lunchin’. Thank you Bill & Barbara for your years of service and for setting the example of how to build and sustain truly inclusive communities
