Key points
What to know before you continue.
- Guides you through services
- Develops a personalized plan
- Connects you with providers
- Monitors your progress
Understanding the Role of a Support Coordinator
A support coordinator is a professional who helps adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities navigate the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) system. They do not make eligibility decisions, but rather act as a guide once you are approved for services. Their primary role is to help you understand the options available under the Community Care Program or the Supports Program. By working closely with you and your family, a support coordinator ensures that you have the information needed to make informed choices about your daily life, community participation, and long-term goals.
Developing a Person-Centered Plan
The foundation of support coordination is the person-centered planning process. Your coordinator will work with you, your family, and your chosen planning team to identify your unique strengths, preferences, and needs. Together, you will create an individualized plan that outlines your goals and the specific services required to achieve them. This plan is not a one-size-fits-all document; it is tailored to your life and can be adjusted as your needs or interests change over time. The focus is always on what matters most to you and how services can support your desired level of independence.
Connecting with Chosen Providers
Once your person-centered plan is developed, your support coordinator helps you turn that plan into action. They will assist you in identifying and connecting with approved service providers in your community, such as Grace Community Care & Homes. You have the right to choose the providers that best fit your needs and preferences. Your coordinator can explain the different types of services available, such as day habilitation, community inclusion, or individual supports, and help you arrange interviews or visits with potential providers to ensure a good match.
Monitoring and Adjusting Your Services
A support coordinator's job does not end once your services begin. They are responsible for ongoing monitoring to ensure that the services you receive align with your person-centered plan and meet your expectations. Your coordinator will check in with you regularly to discuss your progress, address any concerns, and make necessary adjustments to your plan. If your goals change, or if you are not satisfied with a particular service, your support coordinator will advocate for you and help you explore other options within the DDD system.
Prepare for the conversation
Five useful questions to bring with you.
- How do I choose a support coordination agency?
- What happens during the person-centered planning process?
- How often will my support coordinator check in with me?
- Can I change my support coordinator if it is not a good fit?
- How do you help me find providers that match my goals?