Independent Facilitation
The Arc of Allegan County believes Independent Facilitation is a big part of enabling and empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live full, engaged, and meaningful lives.
Independent Facilitators
An Independent Facilitator is an individual who facilitates the Person-Centered Planning (PCP) process in collaboration with the individual requesting the plan.
In Michigan, individuals receiving support through the Community Mental Health Service Provider (known as OnPoint in Allegan County) have a right to choose an Independent or External Facilitator as their PCP. There is no cost to the individual to use this service.
Lakeshore Regional Entity (LRE) has a pool of regional Independent Facilitators to choose from. Facilitators are trained in the Person-Centered Planning process and are knowledgeable on how meetings are to be run. They are also trained in confidentiality issues and are under the same Mental Health Code as LRE.
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What They Do
Independent Facilitators assist an individual with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities by:
- Leading their person-centered plan.
- Believing in them.
- Helping put their dreams into action.
- Arranging meetings (who to invite, where, and when).
- Making sure they are heard and understood.
- Building their plan their way.
- Developing a person-centered plan with them and others who care about them.
Why They May Be Needed
Reasons to use an Independent Facilitator include:
- The ability to have needs and desires put forward by someone who doesn’t decide what will be paid for.
- Concerns that a plan will not lead to action.
- The need for a fresh approach.
- As a result of or the need for major life changes.
- A desire for the person with an IDD to control the planning of their life.
Independence Through The Arc
In addition to connecting individuals and families with Independent Facilitators, The Arc offers independence-building employment opportunities through our Beyond Bones initiative as well as a robust calendar of events including connections programming to provide enrichment and learning opportunities for people with IDDs of all ages.
Learn more about local options for uplifting experiences and opportunities in our community and recreation offerings.
How to Get an Independent Facilitator
At the beginning of a pre-planning meeting, a Supports Coordinator will ask if an Independent Facilitator is desired.
If one is, the individual with an IDD or their family will have an opportunity to choose a specific person for the role.
To learn more or inquire about using an Independent Facilitator, visit the OnPoint website.
