5 Benefits of Support Coordination for New Jersey Families

Support coordination is about much more than filling out paperwork. The right support empowers individuals with developmental disabilities to live their best lives. Let’s explore the five main benefits of support coordination for New Jersey families. 

A support coordination agency is an organization that connects individuals with disabilities to the services offered within the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (NJ DDD) system. NJ DDD services are programs that help individuals with developmental disabilities lead fulfilling lives and participate in their communities to the fullest extent possible. A support coordination agency is required to access these services. Here’s how a New Jersey support coordination agency can help your loved one and also your entire family.

5 Benefits of Support Coordination for New Jersey Families

#1 – Personalized Support Plans

Your loved one and family are unique and require more than just a one-size-fits-all set of services.

Support coordinators work in tandem with families and support teams to craft Individualized Service Plans (ISPs), which are mandatory planning documents in the state of New Jersey that cater to the specific needs and aspirations of your loved one.

The ISP addresses both immediate needs as well as long-term goals and aspirational milestones. By developing a deep, understanding relationship with an individual to learn about their unique strengths, challenges and desires, support coordinators can help families develop a plan that guides their loved one towards a more fulfilling life.

#2 – Access to the Right Resources

There are many NJ DDD services at your disposal. New Jersey support coordination can help to give you and your family peace of mind by navigating the vast world of NJ DDD. Support coordinators assisting in the selection of the right services that fit your loved one’s state budget and address their specific needs.

Whether it’s finding the right education and transportation services or accessing therapy programs, support coordinators are here to guide families with access to resources.

#3 – Benefits for the Whole Family

NJ DDD services are catered to your loved one, but support coordination can benefit the entire family. For example, New Jersey support coordinators provide:

  • Practical assistance. Coordinating services and managing paperwork can help your family find the peace of mind you deserve. With less pressure on day-to-day logistics, family members can focus their energy on providing emotional support to each other, with full knowledge that the administrative tasks are being expertly covered.
  • Knowledge and tools. Support coordinators provide valuable education and training to family members when applicable. When families want help in their day-to-day lives and are seeking support from people who truly understand, support coordinators are there. This empowers family members to better communicate and work together to create a supportive environment.

#4 – Improved Quality of Life

The ultimate goal of support coordination is to enhance the quality of life for your loved one and entire family. Here are two ways support coordination helps accomplish that:

  • Access to services. Support coordinators work diligently to help families access a wide range of support services, such as job opportunities and educational programs. These services are designed to improve your loved one’s daily life, development and overall well-being. The impact of such services extends beyond immediate needs, setting the stage for long-term growth and fulfillment.
  • Greater independence and inclusion. By connecting families to the appropriate resources and services, support coordination agencies empower individuals with developmental disabilities to lead their best lives. This empowerment is not just about accessing services but also about fostering a sense of self-worth and capability. It promotes the idea that individuals with developmental disabilities are valuable members of their community.

#5 – Peace of Mind

Support coordinators are professional, compassionate partners who are deeply invested in the well-being of the families they serve. They are there to address concerns, answer questions, and walk alongside you on your family’s journey.

Final Thoughts

Support coordination is an invaluable source of support and empowerment for families navigating NJ DDD services. Choosing the right support coordination agency makes a difference, providing the above five benefits and more to your entire family.

Looking for an experienced, person-centered support coordination agency for your loved one? Contact Skylands Family Support today.

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