Community Services Landscape in Canada: Survey of Developmental Disability Agencies

A survey of support services for adults with development disabilities living in community settings in Canada was conducted. Information gathered on services and changes occurring in the community services landscape is discussed. Along with a diminution of government's role in funding and guiding service provision, Canada has witnessed the emergence of private-for-profit services, a relatively recent phenomenon in human services. Differences between the private-for-profit and nonprofit sectors are discussed, including a greater propensity in the nonprofit agencies to engage in advocacy and community education. Overall, evidence indicates that some services are beginning to incorporate individualized approaches to funding and support. Implications for government and for services of emergent patterns of support are noted.