Inclusion pioneer
John sadly died on 27th June 2025. John was a pioneer in work to advance inclusion around the world. His own biography is below and we will be sharing more memories of John in the future.
Below is John's very modest description of his work and role in so many people's lives. We've kept John's own words because they express so well the spirit of this lovely man.
John learns about building more just and inclusive communities from people with disabilities, their families, and their allies. He uses what he learns to advise people with disabilities and their families, advocacy groups, service providers, and governments and to spread the news among people interested in change by writing and through workshops.
John is particularly interested in learning with people who are developing the supports necessary for people with substantial needs for assistance to actively exercise their citizenship by taking valued roles in community life. This has led him to think and write about the design of self-directed services, person-centered supports and plans, customized assistance to employment, the contribution of direct support workers, partnership with families, and Asset Based Community Development.
John works in partnership with Connie Lyle O’Brien and a group of friends and is affiliated with the Marsha Forest Centre in Canada.
