Imagine a life where your support truly revolves around you. Not what someone else thinks is best, but what you know you need and want. That’s the power of self direction, and it’s changing the way individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are living and thriving. At Avant Supported Living, we’re passionate about empowering you to take the reins, offering real choice and control over your support services and life decisions. For families seeking an agency that truly listens and delivers exceptional, individualized care for their young adults, understanding self direction is a game-changer. We’re here to make “managing my support” feel less like a task and more like an opportunity to build the life you envision. Our “cult-like” dedication to high-quality care and unwavering advocacy means your journey towards self direction is in the hands of people who truly care.
Unpacking Self-Direction: It’s All About You
The Core Idea: You’re the Boss
- At its heart, self direction is about empowerment. It shifts the power dynamic, placing you (and your family, if you choose) at the center of decision-making regarding your supports.
- Think of it as having the ability to decide what kind of help you need, who provides it, and when and how you receive it. It’s about choice and control in action.
Key Ingredients of Self-Direction
- Personalized Plans: Forget one-size-fits-all. Your support plan is built around your unique goals, strengths, and needs.
- Direct Say: You get to choose the services and supports that make the most sense for you, from direct support professionals to therapies and community activities.
- Budget Flexibility: You’ll have a budget allocated for your supports, and with guidance, you’ll have the freedom to decide how those funds are used.
- Your Voice Matters: Self direction encourages you to speak up, advocate for yourself, and actively participate in shaping your support system.
How Self-Direction Works with Avant Supported Living:
- We walk alongside you. Our experienced team helps you understand the self direction process, assess your needs, and develop a personalized budget.
- We connect you with qualified support professionals and resources, always respecting your choices and preferences. Our commitment to high expectations and thoroughness ensures a smooth and effective experience in managing my support.
- We believe in fostering a supportive and enjoyable environment, where individuals feel motivated and inspired – just ask our clients!
Why Choose the Self-Directed Path?
- More Independence: You gain greater control over your daily life and the supports that enable it.
- Tailored Support: Your services are designed to fit you perfectly, leading to better outcomes and greater satisfaction.
- Boosted Confidence: Making your own choices and seeing positive results builds self-esteem and self-advocacy skills.
- Community Connection: Self direction allows you to choose supports that help you engage with your community in meaningful ways.
Curious? The best way to start is to ask questions! Talk to your current providers or reach out to Avant Supported Living. We’re here to provide clear and helpful information. Our goal-driven approach and high-quality care make us a trusted partner for families seeking the best for their young adults with IDD.
Smart Tips for Your Self-Direction Journey:
- Know Your Rights: Understand the rules and guidelines surrounding self direction in your area.
- Dream Big, Plan Smart: Think about your goals and how self direction can help you achieve them.
- Lean on Your Support Network: Family, friends, and your Avant Supported Living team are there to help. Our passionate DSPs and culture of integrity ensure you have a strong team behind you.
- Stay Organized: Keeping track of your budget and services will make the process smoother.
Steer Clear of These Common Pitfalls:
- Going it Alone: Remember, you have support! Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance.
- Ignoring Your Budget: Careful planning and tracking of your funds are key.
- Not Communicating: Keep the lines of communication open with your support team and Avant Supported Living.
Your Life, Your Way with Self-Direction and Avant Supported Living
Self direction is about putting the power where it belongs – in your hands. It’s about having genuine choice and control over the supports that shape your life. At Avant Supported Living, our unwavering commitment to high-quality, individualized care and our deeply passionate team make us the perfect partner in your self direction journey. We believe in empowering individuals with IDD to live full, meaningful lives, guided by their own choices and aspirations. Take the first step towards a more self-determined future today.