For individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, finding the right support can make all the difference in achieving greater independence, community involvement, and quality of life. California’s Self-Determination Program (SDP) was designed to give Regional Center participants more choice, flexibility, and control over the services they receive.
At Canaan Cares, we’re proud to support participants throughout Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties by providing personalized staffing services that align with each individual’s unique goals and needs.
What Is the Self-Determination Program?
The Self-Determination Program is an alternative way for eligible Regional Center participants to receive services and supports. Rather than selecting from a predetermined list of programs, SDP allows participants to create a person-centered plan and direct how their budget is used to achieve their goals.
The program is built on several key principles:
- Freedom to make choices about services and supports
- Authority to direct an individualized budget
- Support to make informed decisions
- Responsibility in managing services
- Confirmation that participants are the primary decision-makers in their lives
This person-centered approach empowers individuals to pursue goals that are meaningful to them while receiving the support they need to thrive.
How Does the SDP Process Work?
The first step in the Self-Determination Program is completing the SDP Orientation, a free online training consisting of two informational sessions. Participants and families learn how the program works and what to expect throughout the process.
After completing orientation, participants work with their Regional Center Service Coordinator to develop a person-centered plan and establish an individualized budget. Every SDP participant is also required to work with a Financial Management Service (FMS), which helps manage payments and financial administration.
Some participants also choose to work with an Independent Facilitator (IF), who can provide additional guidance and support during planning and implementation.
Once the plan and budget are approved, participants can begin selecting service providers that best fit their goals and needs.
How Canaan Cares Supports SDP Participants
As a staffing agency operating under the SDP Bill-Payer model, Canaan Cares provides personalized support services that are tailored to each participant’s unique plan.
Our services often mirror traditional Regional Center supports while offering greater flexibility and customization.
Depending on a participant’s goals, support may include:
Independent Living and Daily Living Skills
- Personal health and hygiene
- Meal planning and cooking
- Household management and chores
- Developing routines that promote independence
- Personal safety skills at home and in the community
Community Access and Social Engagement
- Participating in community activities
- Building social connections
- Using public transportation
- Increasing confidence in community settings
- Exploring hobbies and recreational interests
Education and Employment Support
- Pursuing educational opportunities
- Taking classes and skill-building programs
- Working toward vocational goals
- Developing workplace readiness skills
Personal Assistance and Respite Care
- Support with daily activities
- Individualized assistance based on participant needs
- Respite services that provide families and caregivers with valuable support and relief
Why Families Choose Canaan Cares
The Self-Determination Program is designed around flexibility, and we believe service providers should be flexible as well.
At Canaan Cares, we understand that no two participants have the same goals. Our team works closely with participants, families, Financial Management Services, Independent Facilitators, and Regional Center teams to ensure supports align with each person’s vision for their future.
Whether someone’s goal is becoming more independent at home, gaining confidence in the community, pursuing education, or building life skills, our staff is committed to helping participants achieve meaningful outcomes.
We also pride ourselves on exceptional customer service and responsiveness. As SDP continues to grow, we remain committed to expanding services and service areas when we can do so while maintaining the highest quality standards.
Your Goals. Your Choices. Your Future.
The Self-Determination Program gives participants the opportunity to design supports that reflect who they are and what they want to achieve. With the right team in place, SDP can open doors to greater independence, confidence, and community involvement.
Canaan Cares is honored to be part of that journey.
To learn more about SDP services through Canaan Cares, contact us today at 888-895-8778 or email Taryn.Greenberg@CanaanCares.org.
