Understanding your rights, options, and path to greater independence
Prepared by Yvonne Yoo, Independent Facilitator
info@pathbridgesolutions.com
The Self-Determination Program (SDP) is a voluntary program that gives individuals with developmental disabilities more control over the services and supports they receive through California's Regional Center system.
The core idea: Instead of the Regional Center choosing and managing your services, you decide what services you need, who provides them, and how your budget is spent.
Under WIC ยง4685.8, an Independent Facilitator (IF) is a person selected by the participant to help them understand and navigate the Self-Determination Program.
Remember: You have the right to choose your own IF, and you can change your IF at any time. The IF works for you.
The Self-Determination Program is built on a foundation of participant empowerment. Here are your key rights.
You have the right to select and change your Independent Facilitator at any time. Your IF should be someone you trust.
You direct how your individual budget is spent on services and supports that meet your identified needs and goals.
Select the service providers who best fit your needs, including the option to hire your own workers directly.
Your plan must be developed through a person-centered process that focuses on your strengths, preferences, and goals.
Important: If you disagree with a decision, you have the right to appeal. You can also leave SDP and return to traditional services at any time โ it is always voluntary.
The Individual Program Plan (IPP) is the roadmap for your services. Here's how it works in the Self-Determination Program.
A facilitated meeting where you share your goals, dreams, preferences, and needs. Your IF helps you prepare and participate.
Based on your IPP goals, you and your IF create a spending plan that shows how your individual budget will be used.
Meet with your service coordinator to finalize the plan. Your IF attends to support you. Who attends: you, your family/support, your IF, and your service coordinator.
Once approved, your budget is set up with a Financial Management Service (FMS). You can then begin purchasing services.
Your plan is reviewed regularly. You can request changes at any time as your needs evolve.
In SDP, you receive an individual budget based on the cost of services in your most recent IPP or spending plan. Here's what you need to know.
An FMS handles the financial side of SDP:
You choose your FMS โ common options include Aces Financial, PMBA, and others approved in your region.
One of the biggest benefits of SDP is the freedom to choose your own providers. Here's how to navigate your options.
Licensed agencies that employ staff to provide services like respite, day programs, and therapies. They handle HR and compliance.
Individual professionals you contract with directly. Often more flexible and personalized, but you manage the relationship.
People you hire directly โ family friends, community members, etc. Your FMS handles payroll. Most flexible option.
Tips for vetting providers:
For Korean-speaking families, having an Independent Facilitator who speaks your language and understands your culture can make all the difference.
Under California law, you have the right to receive services and information in your preferred language. A bilingual IF ensures this right is fully honored โ not just through interpreters, but through direct, nuanced communication.
Korean families often have unique perspectives on disability, family roles, and caregiving. A culturally competent IF understands these dynamics and can advocate in a way that respects your values.
With over 25 years of experience working alongside Regional Centers as an Independent Facilitator/Education and Disability Advocate โ serving families through RCOC, Harbor RC, Inland RC, SGPRC, and East LA Regional Center and a passion for empowering Korean-speaking families, I bring unique value to your SDP journey.
I prepare you for meetings, attend alongside you, and ensure your goals and needs are clearly communicated and documented.
I help you understand your individual budget, develop your spending plan, and make the most of your allocated resources.
I help you find, vet, and coordinate with service providers who meet your needs and share your cultural values.
I advocate for your rights within the RC system, helping you navigate challenges and ensuring you receive what you're entitled to.
My experience includes: 25+ years as an Independent Facilitator/Education and Disability Advocate serving families alongside RCOC, Harbor Regional Center, Inland RC, SGPRC, and East LA Regional Center, plus extensive experience in Special Education. I know the system inside and out, and I'm here to make it work for you.
Ready to explore the Self-Determination Program? I'm here to help you every step of the way.
info@pathbridgesolutions.com
(714) 485-6108
(213) 881-3688
Orange County ยท Los Angeles County
Inland Empire (San Bernardino & Riverside Counties)
Contact me for a free consultation. I'll answer your questions and help you decide if SDP is right for you and your family. Korean language support available โ ํ๊ตญ์ด ์๋ด ๊ฐ๋ฅํฉ๋๋ค.