We believe the principles, practices and philosophies of culture change are the tools that can transform the culture in which we care for our elders and the disabled, to one that is life affirming, satisfying and meaningful. The Illinois Pioneer Coalition was organized to provide long term care settings with the education and tools needed to effect deep culture change, thereby transforming long term care settings into real homes and improving the quality of life for individuals and staff in various settings throughout Illinois. The education provided shall be based on the philosophy, practices, and principles of person-centered and person-directed care designed to improve quality of life for elders and persons with disabilities in our society.