Sheldon Schwitek

SHELDON SCHWITEK

Sheldon Schwitek has been supporting individuals with complex behavioural needs in the United States and in Canada for almost 3 decades. His initial interest in person-centered practices grew out of supporting a young man with autism. During this experience, he was introduced to the founding members of the Marsha Forest Center and became a facilitator of the processes of MAPS, PATH and Circles of Support through Inclusion Press.

For almost 10 years, he worked closely with Judith Snow, a pioneer in developing circles of supports and helping to identify ways that others could discover their gifts and make contributions to their communities.  For more than 2 decades, Sheldon has been an integral part of the Toronto Summer Institute, helping to facilitate connection and community with diverse groups of participants.   Sheldon has utilized the knowledge and skills he gained throughout his career to ensure the supports a person receives are focused on the unique preferences and needs of the individual and those who know them best.

During the last decade, Sheldon’s work has been associated with The Center for Positive Living Supports in Michigan. The focus of The Center’s work on the importance of relationships was a perfect fit for how Sheldon approached the issues surrounding those who are most at risk of being excluded

Recently, Sheldon has been working with teams who support individuals with complex needs. Sheldon brings expertise to provide guidance in the development and implementation of an individualized plan; supporting staff training and development, and as on-site direct support and mentoring of those who provide services to the individual.

Sheldon’s wish is to bring his broad experience to bear in helping organizations and teams provide the best individualized supports to those who are the most broken hearted and present significant challenges to those who provide assistance. He believes that with intentional support, anyone can thrive in a community.