About SDP
My Self-Determined Life
Self-Determination means people with disabilities have the same rights to make their own choices as everyone else. The Self-Determination Program helps people live the way they want by giving them freedom and responsibility. Not that long ago, people with disabilities were put in institutions where all of their civil rights were taken away. Even though those places are mostly gone, some people still think others should make decisions for them. These systems train in person-centered thinking, but true person-centered means participants have the authority to decide.
“My Self-Determined Life” shares stories about people in the Self-Determination Program who are living their dreams. The Self-Determination Program gives participants a budget and they decide how to use it for their goals. They can choose how to spend it with the help of people they trust. These are stories of what a self-determined life can be.
Self-Determination Program Stories
SDP Podcast:
The Self-Determination Program: The Clients’ Experience podcast hosted by IRC Access Podcast has participants speak about their experiences in SDP. You can also learn how SDP give participants more power to select the services and supports they need and how those services and supports will be provided.
Our Stories:
Everyone’s SDP program will be different because self-determination means making your own choices. But it can help to see how others are using their SDP programs. Their stories might give you new ideas you hadn’t thought of before.
A common theme in the stories is that their SDP programs grew and changed with them. They got to try new things. Sometimes they made mistakes, but that’s how everyone learns. The important thing about self-determination is living life your way.
Remember, think outside the box!