Center for Disabilities Studies : Community Education : Individual and Family Support Coordination Certificate
Individual and Family Support Coordination Certificate
Support Coordination involves working with the consumer, and others that are identified by the consumer (such as family members), in developing an individualized support plan. The planning process utilizes the person-centered format and one of the primary roles of support coordination is to assist in identifying and implementing strategies that reflect the consumer’s personal vision for a desired life. Support strategies incorporate the principles of empowerment, self-determination, community inclusion, health and safety assurances, and the use of natural supports. Support Coordinators work closely with the consumer to assure his or her ongoing approval with the process, outcomes, services, and available resources. Activities reflect the services desired and needed by the consumer. When developing a plan, the Support Coordinator may support the consumer around such issues as housing and employment, social networks, appointments and meetings, resources, with focus on quality, health, safety, and satisfaction.
Curriculum topics
Working with Different Families
Our personal and professional opinions affect how we make decisions and influence our actions. In this session we will explore and learn how to minimize stereotyping, and instead support consumers and their families who may challenge your ideas, or have different values.
Better Communication and Less Conflict
Improve your skills and adapt your style of communication so your message is clear. Learn and practice negotiation skills to better manage differences and connect with your colleagues and consumers.
Family Support, Advocacy and Self-Determination
Empower families and individuals through a family system approach, self-determination and advocacy methods. Learn about national trends that are working in our organizations and homes.
Identifying Useful Resources
How do we find the right resources in the community and who is the best person to contact? Find answers and meet experts who can steer you down the right road.
Essential Life Planning and Person Centered Thinking
Improve your ELPs through the philosophy of Person Centered Thinking. Practice developing better plans with exercises designed to “help people get better lives, not just better plans…”
Building Teams and Building Dreams
What characteristics are needed to create productive teams and "Circles of Support?" Learn techniques that generate an engaging work environment for all employees and their consumers.
Special Note: New Visions is a prerequisite for this course.
Cost
Registration fee: $50
Course tuition: $200/semester (nonprofit organizations); $300/semester (for-profit organizations)
Tuition free to employees of Delaware DDDS or a DDDS-funded program and family members.
Calendar
Sessions will be scheduled.
Participants are expected to attend all sessions.
A University of Delaware certificate is awarded upon completion of the sessions.
Registration
Mail your registration to:
Individual and Family Support Coordination
Center for Disabilities Studies
University of Delaware
461 Wyoming Road
Newark, DE, 19716
For more information
Bev Stapleford
(302) 831-4688
bstape@udel.edu
