Individuals with intellectual disabilities are, first and foremost, people with basic human needs, aspirations, desires, and feelings; second, citizens of a community, who are afforded all the rights, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities afforded other citizens; and finally, includes who happen to have a disabling condition.

People with intellectual disabilities are recognized as having diverse needs, concerns, strengths, motivations, goals, and abilities which can best be addressed through the coordinated and cooperative efforts of an inter-agency network of human services providers.

Family units, both traditional and nontraditional, are frequently the most important resource and support to people with intellectual disabilities.

The rights, wishes, values and needs of people with intellectual disabilities and family members are paramount in planning and operating the intellectual disabilities services system.

The system is sensitive to other members of the population with intellectual disabilities.

For the majority of people with intellectual disabilities, the natural setting in the community is the best place for providing services.

Local communities are the most knowledgeable regarding their local environment, issues, strengths or gaps in the service system, and opportunities.

Staff who work effectively with people with intellectual disabilities are highly regarded and valued resources of the system.