abilities magazine. Spring 2001

FULL CIRCLE | Vickie Cammack

The Energy of the Circle

The circle, a tool of the heart, opens space in its centre where everyone's energies meet.

- Travis and Callender

PLAN's pioneering work in Personal Network development is having an impact far beyond our wildest dreams 12 years ago when we began building circles. Communities across North America are being strengthened as individuals with disabilities make their contributions in their networks. There is a wonderful mix of energies at PLAN as new people and new groups use our process for building and maintaining support circles.

I've had the privilege of participating in three very different events in recent months that are putting our work into action. In the fall, I went to Boston and spent two days with families and facilitators at PALS (Personal Advocacy and Lifetime Services). The families at PALS have worked for three long and loving years to create their organization based on PLAN principles. They are now launching their Personal Network program.

In Halifax, I met with our affiliated Lifetime Advocacy Network of Nova Scotia (LANNS). The accomplishments of this small group are impressive. Their energy was contagious as they prepared to start their first Personal Network.

My next journey was a fulfilling visit to Duncan, B.C. I have been working with the Family Caregiver Support Society since last winter. This pioneering group has taken our approach to Personal Networks and applied it to senior caregiving families. The results are heartwarming. Caregivers are able to get out more often, and their loved ones are more active. One previously isolated senior now hosts teas for his network. Although he has Alzheimer's disease, he was able to articulate, "I love these people." It is clear that community is alive and well in the Cowichan Valley.

These North American circles of energy are providing us at PLAN with brilliant sparks of inspiration and encouragement. As each group joins us, our collective vibrancy, strength and wisdom grow. That is, after all, what happens when energies meet in the circle.

Vickie Cammack is the newly appointed Executive Director of the PLAN Institute for Citizenship and Disability.