This September, the Rural Institute for Inclusive Communities and University of Montana Disability Services for Students (DSS) hosted a study tour for 17 representatives from five Egyptian universities and the Ministry of Education. The purpose of the study tour was to strengthen the capacity of Egyptian university staff to administer newly established Disability Support Centers and ensure equal access to higher education for university students with disabilities.

The tour was funded by AMIDEAST, an American non-profit organization focused on international education and development activities in the Middle East, and USAID who aims to improve equality for people with disabilities in Egypt. Helm, a social enterprise in Cairo, Egypt which promotes inclusion of people with disabilities, was also an organizing partner.

On Tuesday, November 12, Ellen Condon and Theresa Baltry will host the final webinar in a 3 webinar series to talk about how to translate what you have observed and learned during the work experience (or other Discovery activities) into a plan for additional work experiences and/or a blueprint for the student's well-matched job.

by Theresa Baldry, Kim Brown and Lauren Smith

The Rural Institute is pleased to share a fact sheet on alternative approaches to guardianship.

Least Restrictive Approaches to Supporting Individuals as Decision Makers

Too often full guardianship is the default option for individuals who need assistance with decision-making, which is very restrictive. There are alternative approaches to guardianship that are flexible and can adapt to an individual’s changing needs. This fact sheet defines guardianship, shares some alternative approaches to guardianship, addresses myths about decision-making supports, and provides links to guardianship and decision-making resources for further information.