How to find an Independent Facilitator/SDP Enrollment Supports

Participants in the Self-Determination Program (SDP) may choose someone to help them. Independent Facilitators (IFs) are people who are selected and directed by the participant and who can provide assistance in the following ways:

• Assisting the individual with making informed decisions regarding their individual budget
• Locating, accessing and coordinating services and supports consistent with the participant’s Individual Program Plan (IPP)
• Identifying immediate and long-term needs
• Leading, participating, and/or advocating on behalf of participants in the person-centered planning process and development of the IPP;
• Obtaining identified services and supports

People can find IF/SDP enrollment support by:

• Asking their Regional Center Service Coordinator for a list
• Attending their Local Self-Determination Advisory Committee to meet & greet with IFs/supporters
• Visit the SDP Network website SDP Network- Resource for Independent Facilitators

Good Questions to Find a Good Match:

• What experience have you had as an Independent Facilitator?
• Do you specialize in particular age groups (children, transition-age youth, adults, seniors)?
• What types of disabilities or communication needs do you have experience supporting?
• How any Person-Centered Plans have you facilitated? How do you prepare? What tools or formats do you use (e.g., PATH, MAPS, LifeCourse, your own templates)?
• How well do you know my community?
• How well do you know my culture?
• How would you help me to find services I need?
• How will you help me figure out my budget?
• Can you advocate for me at my IPP? What about a fair hearing?
• Can you help me receive benefits (SSI, IHSS, etc.)
• Do you also help manage workers? If yes, how?
• How would you help me if I am unhappy with the job that one of my workers is doing?
• How will you keep in touch with other members of my support team?
• Are you willing to adapt your services to meet my specific needs and preferences?
• Are you willing to negotiate a price based on my specific needs?
• Given what you know about what I need, how much would you charge?
• Is your fee hourly or flat-rate for the year?
• How do you bill?
• Do you require a contract?
• What costs might fall outside of SDP funds?
• Do you have any relationships with service providers that might create a conflict of interest?
• If I’m unhappy with your services, so you have a complaint process? What is it?
• Is there a penalty for cancelling a contract?
• Are there any families you serve that I can speak to about your services?
• When are you available to start?