For individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, no two journeys are the same.
Every person has unique goals, strengths, preferences, and support needs. That is why California’s Self-Determination Program (SDP) represents such an important shift in how services are delivered.
Rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach, the Self-Determination Program empowers participants and their families to take an active role in designing the services that best fit their lives. At Almost Family, we are proud to support individuals participating in the California Self-Determination Program by providing compassionate, personalized services that align with each person’s goals and vision for independence.
What Is the California Self-Determination Program?
The California Self-Determination Program is an alternative way for eligible Regional Center participants to receive services. Instead of relying solely on traditional Regional Center vendors, participants receive an individual budget and gain greater flexibility in selecting the providers, supports, and services that help them achieve the goals outlined in their Individual Program Plan (IPP).
The program is built around person-centered planning, giving individuals and families more authority over decisions that directly impact their daily lives. Participants have the opportunity to choose who provides their care, how services are delivered, and where support takes place.
The Benefits of Choosing Your Own Care
One of the greatest advantages of the Self-Determination Program is the freedom to create support that reflects your unique needs instead of fitting into a predetermined system.
This flexibility allows participants to:
- Select service providers they know and trust.
- Build personalized care plans around individual goals.
- Receive support in familiar environments.
- Adjust services as needs change over time.
- Focus on increasing independence, community involvement, and quality of life.
How Almost Family Supports Self-Determination Participants
At Almost Family, we believe quality care starts with listening. Our role is not to fit individuals into a predetermined program but to provide services that reflect each person’s goals, preferences, and daily routines.
As a trusted provider within California’s Self-Determination Program, we work alongside participants and families to deliver compassionate, individualized support that promotes independence and meaningful community involvement.
Our caregivers understand that successful support is built on relationships, consistency, and respect. Whether someone is working toward greater independence at home, building life skills, participating in community activities, or pursuing employment opportunities, our team provides personalized assistance every step of the way.
Personalized Services That Grow With You
The Self-Determination Program recognizes that needs evolve over time. As goals change, services can change as well.
Depending on each individual’s personalized plan, support may include:
- Supported living services
- Community integration
- Job development and employment coaching
- Daily living skills
- Personal assistance
- Independence-building activities
- Individualized caregiving and mentorship
Rather than delivering standardized care, these services are designed to help individuals build confidence, strengthen independence, and participate more fully in their communities.
Independence Looks Different for Everyone
For some individuals, independence means learning to manage daily routines with minimal assistance. For others, it may involve finding meaningful employment, participating in community events, or developing stronger social connections.
The Self-Determination Program acknowledges that independence is personal. Instead of defining success the same way for everyone, it encourages participants to establish goals that reflect their own values and aspirations.
At Almost Family, we are honored to help individuals pursue those goals through dependable, compassionate care that supports both personal growth and long-term success.
Partner With a Provider Who Puts You First
Choosing a provider is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in the Self-Determination Program. You deserve a team that values your voice, respects your choices, and works alongside you to create meaningful outcomes.
At Almost Family, we are committed to providing personalized services that empower individuals to live with dignity, confidence, and greater independence.
