Support coordination is a service that helps individuals with special needs and their families find and access the programs, services and resources they need to support a successful adult life. In New Jersey, families work with support coordination agencies to understand and apply for NJ Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) services. 

What Is the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD)?

The NJ DDD is a division of the NJ Department of Human Services’, providing a variety of services to individuals with special needs through a network of 500+ providers and service planning by support coordinators. 

The NJ DDD has been the lead resource agency for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families since 1959. The division’s mission is to “assure the opportunity for individuals with developmental disabilities to receive quality services and supports, participate meaningfully in their communities and exercise their right to make choices.”

NJ DDD services include:

  • Assistive technology
  • Behavioral supports
  • Day programming
  • Employment options
  • Therapies
  • Transportation 
  • Classes 

Individuals can access NJ DDD services through one of two Medicaid waiver programs, which provide services that allow individuals to live in their own homes or in a community setting:

  • The Community Care Program (CCP) – Provides services for eligible individuals living in licensed or unlicensed settings or with their families.  
  • The Supports Program – Provides services for eligible individuals living with their families or in other unlicensed settings. 

In addition, the NJ DDD operates five Intermediate Care Facilities (ICFs), which provide 24/7 care to individuals who require specialized support.

What Do NJ DDD Support Coordinators Do?

NJ DDD support coordinators help individuals with developmental disabilities and their families connect with appropriate DDD, medical, social and educational services.

Support coordinators – also referred to as DDD case managers – help individuals identify goals by completing the Person Centered Planning Tool (PCPT). From there, they develop the Individualized Service Plan (ISP), which is the written details of the activities, resources and supports required for the individual to achieve their personal goals.  

The DDD support coordinators’ role goes beyond paperwork. They are the primary point of contact for the individual and family and are responsible for ensuring the individual is receiving quality services that are helping them progress toward identified goals. 

Support coordinators may also serve as a DDD transition coordinator, helping to ensure a smooth transition from graduation to adult life. This means tending Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meetings and meeting with other transition teams to understand the needs of the individual and move the transition along quickly and comfortably. 

Who Offers DDD Support Coordination in NJ?

There are over 100 support coordination agencies in NJ, so it can be difficult to choose the right one for your family. Here’s how you can make the right decision:

  • Look for a support coordination agency that has a good reputation in your area. Choose an agency that has received positive customer testimonials from families just like yours.
  • Choose a support coordination agency that takes the time to get to know you and your family. This introduction shouldn’t feel rushed or impersonal.
  • Look for a support coordination agency that has the capacity to provide the support you need. Whether that be employment opportunities, in-home support, transportation, or something else — bring up your needs during the initial introduction to ensure they remain a priority. 

Where Are DDD Support Coordination Services Provided?

Support coordination is available in the following NJ counties: 

Who Is Eligible for NJ DDD Services?

To qualify for New Jersey Department of Developmental Disabilities services, you must:

  • Meet the functional criteria of having a developmental disability determined by DDD. 
  • Be 21 years of age or older. 
  • Be a legal U.S. citizen and resident of New Jersey.
  • Be eligible for or enrolled in Medicaid. 
  • Have completed the NJCAT.

About Skylands Family Support

Skylands Family Support is a self-approving, NJ DDD support coordination agency that provides family-oriented support and care to individuals with developmental disabilities. 

Our team of nearly 40 specializes in creating independence for individuals and their loved ones while inspiring individual choice and personal growth. We strive to build long-term relationships with our families and are proud to have less than a 10% staff turnover.

Skylands is more than a support coordination agency — we are a team of experienced professionals that you can count on and trust. 

Learn more about us here; discover New Jersey areas we serve here.

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