Definition

A person selected or directed by the participant, who does not provide services to the participant and has experience in SDP. May assist the participant in making informed decisions about all aspects of SD. This may include short- or long-term needs, PCP document creation, budget review, spending plan creation, advocacy, IPP review, and resource and service coordination.

Skills

  • Dream big: Important TO... creative

  • Define needs: Important FOR… 

  • Conduct PCP Celebration to gather  information about participant.

  • Find resources 

  • Understand developmental service systems

  • Implement goals and spending plan

  • Hire staff/ Help with job descriptions

  • Work with CVRC and FMS staff. 

  • Negotiate contracts

  • Resolve issues

  • Know personal limits

The Rules

  • IF may not provide direct services to client 

  • Spouse may not serve as paid IF

  • Parents may not serve as paid IF of children under 18.

  • Must provide proof of training in PCP and SD practices.

  • The payment for IF services comes from the participant spending plan. 

  • DDS does provide finances to support participants and families into SDP when they utilize an IF/ PCP planner