Independent Facilitator
Participants in the Self-Determination Program may choose an Independent Facilitator to help them 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 and developing options to meet those 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
It is not required that an independent facilitator have a certification or licensure. However, an independent facilitator is required to receive training (flyer in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese)in the principles of self-determination, the person-centered planning process, and the other responsibilities consistent with coordination of services for consumers’ individual program plans.
The State Council on Developmental Disabilities Orange County Office offers a self-paced IF training that consists of seven 15-minute modules. This is considered a starting point, not an end point. Participants are encouraged to seek out additional trainings and resources especially on the person-centered planning process. This training should be used as a supplement to additional trainings, but not as the sole training toward becoming an IF. Interested IF’s can email orangecounty@scdd.ca.gov to receive the YouTube links and handouts.
Resources:
Independent Facilitator Network – via the SDP Network
Independent Facilitator Network