Self-Direction in Action: Participant Stories
People with lived experience are in the best position to talk about the freedom and independence self-direction has brought to their lives. The stories shared here provide just a glimpse into the empowering impacts of self-direction and the individuals leading the movement.
Maria
Though initially hesitant about "being her own boss," she found her voice, hired caregivers who truly supported her needs, and regained her community connections.
Irma and Ray
The Consumer-Directed Community Support Program allowed Irma and Ray's daughter Donna to be their paid caregiver.
Travis
An avid music collector and outdoor enthusiast, Travis faced challenges accessing transportation and community activities. Through self-direction, he's now able to pursue his passions!
Kevin
When asked what he would do without self-direction, Kevin replied, “I’m at a loss for words. I’m really not sure.”
Ralph and Kara
After a traumatic motorcycle accident in 2021 and multiple challenging facility stays, Ralph found his path home through self-direction. With his partner Kara, they have transformed their home into a place of healing and progress.
John
At age 22, John and his parents sought to replace the exceptional services he had received at school. The solution, a combination of self-directed and traditional programs.
Ari
As an adult, Ari lived in a group home 100 miles away from his family. Finally, at the age of 25, he was able to move home to Wolf Point, Montana located on the Fort Peck reservation.
Kim and Marissa
Marissa is in a self-direction program but, prior to COVID-19, was unable to hire her mother as a paid worker.
Tommy
A World War II Veteran battles Lewy Body Dementia at home. Tommy was the first family enrolled in the VD-HCBC program in Central Texas.
Pam and Robert
Pamela chose to raise Robert in an inclusive environment as opposed to an institutional setting.
Rosie
Rosie’s advocacy has led to positive change in technology, patient safety, and healthcare practices. Rosie continues to live a self-determined life and uses her own journey and has served as a catalyst to bring people up.
Ryan
Ryan lives an independent life, driving a modified vehicle and working at Granite State Independent Living Center.
Stories of Self-Direction Presentation
View a session from the 2023 Self-Direction Virtual Conference Series where Tim, Mel, Nate, and Kathy shared how self-direction changed their lives and advice for others thinking about enrolling.
Ron
For the last 25 years, Ron has used self-directed supports. He lives in an accessible apartment connected to his parents' home with multiple support staff. View a session from the 2025 Self-Direction Virtual Conference where a panel discussed maintaining fidelity of staff training and sustaining relationship networks.