The Association for Community Living (ACL) is a NYS membership organization of not-for-profit agencies that provide housing and rehabilitation services to 40,000 people diagnosed with serious and persistent psychiatric disabilities. ACL is committed to providing education, technical assistance advocacy and other resources to help its members develop, operate and promote effective community-based housing and rehabilitation services to people with psychiatric disorders. ACL believes: - Life skills are best acquired in the environments where individuals live and work. Individuals should be actively involved in all aspects of their rehabilitation. - Housing options and support services should be determined by individual needs and preferences. An array of safe, affordable housing options and flexible support services should be available to meet those needs and preferences. -Individuals, families, New York State , service providers and advocates must share the challenge of designing cost-effective programs that promote recovery. -All involved in the promotion of community based servicers should work to educate the public to eliminate the stigma and discrimination that prevent individuals from realizing their full potential.