Finding the right services for a loved one with a developmental disability is about more than checking boxes on a list of available programs. Every individual has unique goals, interests, and dreams for the future, and the support they receive should reflect those priorities. The Self-Determination Program was created to give eligible Regional Center participants greater choice and control over how their services are planned and delivered. Instead of following a one-size-fits-all approach, participants can build a personalized support plan that reflects the life they want to live.
Understanding how the Self-Determination Program works can help families decide whether it is the right option for their loved one.
At Canaan Cares, we understand that every person’s journey is different. That’s why we are proud to provide individualized services that support participants and families who choose the Self-Determination Program.
What Is the Self-Determination Program?
The Self-Determination Program (SDP) is a voluntary program available to eligible California Regional Center participants. It is designed to give individuals more authority over the services and supports they receive by allowing them to make decisions based on their personal goals and preferences.
Rather than selecting services from a limited group of Regional Center vendors, participants have greater flexibility to choose the providers they believe are the best fit for their needs. This allows individuals and families to create a support system that reflects their priorities while encouraging greater independence and self-direction.
The program is built around person-centered planning, meaning the individual remains at the center of every decision. Instead of asking, “What services are available?” the planning process begins by asking, “What does this person want to accomplish, and what supports will help them get there?”
How Does the Program Work?
One of the key features of the Self-Determination Program is the individualized budget.
For most participants, the annual budget is generally based on the value of the Regional Center services they received during the previous 12 months. That budget is then used to purchase approved services and supports that align with the participant’s person-centered plan.
Although participants have greater flexibility in how their budget is used, the program includes safeguards to ensure funds are managed appropriately.
Each participant works with an approved Financial Management Service (FMS). The FMS helps manage the budget, processes payments to service providers, maintains required records, and helps ensure program requirements are met. This allows participants and families to remain focused on achieving their goals while receiving administrative support behind the scenes.
Who Is the Self-Determination Program Right For?
The Self-Determination Program may be a good option for individuals who want a more active role in directing their services and planning for the future.
Participants often appreciate the program if they:
- Want greater choice in selecting service providers.
- Prefer a person-centered planning process.
- Have specific personal goals they want to pursue.
- Value flexibility as their needs change over time.
- Want more control over how services are coordinated.
Because the program is voluntary, families can carefully evaluate whether this approach matches their loved one’s needs and long-term goals.
The Power of Choosing Your Own Providers
One of the biggest differences between the Self-Determination Program and more traditional service models is the ability to choose service providers.
Participants are not limited to selecting only Regional Center vendors. Instead, they can choose qualified providers that best meet their individual needs and preferences, as long as program requirements are followed.
Depending on their circumstances, participants may choose to receive services from agencies, independent professionals, or, when permitted under program rules, even certain family members or friends.
Having this flexibility allows families to build a support team they know and trust while creating services that truly reflect the participant’s goals.
Person-Centered Planning Creates More Meaningful Goals
Person-centered planning is the foundation of the Self-Determination Program.
Rather than focusing primarily on limitations, this planning process begins by identifying the individual’s strengths, interests, preferences, and future aspirations.
Questions often include:
- What skills would they like to develop?
- What activities bring them joy?
- How would they like to participate in their community?
- What level of independence do they hope to achieve?
- What supports will help them reach those goals?
These conversations help create a personalized roadmap that evolves as the individual’s goals and circumstances change.
Instead of simply receiving services, participants are actively involved in shaping their future.
How Canaan Cares Supports Self-Determination Participants
Choosing the Self-Determination Program also means choosing providers who understand the importance of individualized support.
Canaan Cares offers services that can be incorporated into a participant’s person-centered plan based on their approved goals and needs. Depending on the individual’s plan, support may include assistance with independent living skills, community participation, respite services, employment-related goals, and personalized day and community supports.
Every service is designed to help individuals build confidence, strengthen daily living skills, increase independence, and participate more fully in their communities.
Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, Canaan Cares works closely with participants and families to understand what success looks like for each individual and provide support that aligns with those goals.
Understanding Eligibility and Responsibilities
Because the Self-Determination Program offers greater flexibility, participants also take on additional responsibilities. Eligible individuals must be Regional Center clients and agree to participate in person-centered planning while working within their individualized budget. Participants also work with a Financial Management Service and are responsible for making informed decisions about the services they choose.
Families are not expected to navigate the process alone. Regional Centers, Financial Management Services, and service providers each play important roles in helping participants understand program requirements and successfully manage their services.
Is the Self-Determination Program the Right Choice?
Every individual has different goals, abilities, and preferences, so there is no single answer that fits every family.
For individuals who value flexibility, personalized planning, and greater control over their services, the Self-Determination Program can offer meaningful opportunities to build a support system that reflects their unique vision for the future.
Families who are interested in learning more should speak with their Regional Center service coordinator to determine eligibility and discuss whether the program aligns with their loved one’s goals.
Conclusion
The Self-Determination Program gives eligible Regional Center participants the opportunity to take a more active role in planning the services and supports that shape their lives. Through person-centered planning, individualized budgets, provider choice, and the support of a Financial Management Service, participants can create a plan that reflects their personal goals and aspirations.
At Canaan Cares, we believe every individual deserves services that are as unique as they are. By providing individualized supports that promote independence, community involvement, employment goals, respite, and daily living skills, Canaan Cares is proud to help Self-Determination Program participants build the future they envision for themselves.
If you are interested in the Self-Determination Program in Vista, CA, please contact the compassionate staff at Canaan Cares today: (858) 345-6546.
Canaan Cares proudly serves California Regional Centers throughout San Diego, Poway, Oceanside, Escondido, Carlsbad, El Cajon, Vista, Solana Beach, Encinitas, La Mesa, and Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Riverside Counties.
To begin the eligibility process in your region, contact:
San Diego Regional Center
(858) 576-2996
Regional Center of Orange County
(714) 796-5100
Inland Regional Center
(909) 890-3000
Harbor Regional Center
(310) 543-0100
South Central Los Angeles Regional Center
(213) 744-7000
Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center
(626) 299-4700
Lanterman Regional Center
(213) 383-1300
Westside Regional Center
(310) 258-4000
Families may call any office for support, and staff will direct you to the correct intake coordinator.
