We are an organization dedicated to expanding opportunities for people with disabilities to fully participate in the design, delivery and evaluation of their services, with the support they need, from whom they want.
Ultimately, this means people and their families are supported in living lives of meaning, of their own choosing.
About Us.
In 2015, a small group of people came together with a shared belief: people in New Jersey must have the ability to direct their own services. What started as a simple idea quickly became something more. That day, The Collaborative for Citizen-Directed Supports – NJ was formed.
The Collaborative did not grow overnight. It grew over time through commitment, learning, and collaboration.
At the same time, New Jersey’s service system was changing. Funding was shifting from contracts to a Fee-For-Service (FFS) model. While this change did not remove choice, it created uncertainty for many people. We knew it was important to create a space where people could come together, ask questions, learn from one another, and move forward with confidence.
The New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) listened and supported this vision. The Collaborative was invited to participate in system conversations as the only organization in New Jersey focused entirely on citizen-directed supports.
We began hosting community forums open to everyone. People who use services, family members, professionals, advocates, and community members came together to share ideas, ask questions, and learn more about self-direction.
When COVID-19 began, our focus shifted to keeping people safe. Alongside partners from DDD and other organizations, we helped distribute masks, gloves, and supplies across the state. We made sure people had what they needed to stay safe in their homes and communities.
We also continued our learning and education efforts. Through virtual sessions, we helped people explore new ways to receive support when day programs and group services were no longer available. Many people were new to self-direction. Together, we learned, adapted, and supported one another during a difficult time.
Today, the Collaborative continues to work with individuals, families, and professionals across New Jersey. We support projects and partnerships that protect the right of every person to choose and direct their own services.
Our work is guided by a simple goal: help people get the supports they need, in the ways that work best for them.
We believe the time is now to come together to challenge traditional approaches and expand citizen-directed services and supports across New Jersey.
We do this by:
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Creating meaningful opportunities for shared learning and teaching
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Fostering connections with colleagues and vetted subject-matter experts
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Providing access to information on best practices in I/DD services and supports
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Offering technical assistance related to compliance, policy, and regulation
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Supporting one another through the complex challenges we face in this work
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Elevating and promoting the expertise of organizations advancing citizen-directed supports throughout New Jersey
Together, we strengthen a system where individuals have greater choice, voice, and control over the supports that shape their lives.
Our Current Member Organizations
Founded in 2007, Values Into Action NJ is a statewide support coordination agency dedicated to helping people live the lives of their own design.
Royal Community Support offers individuals the opportunity and support to live independent lifestyles. We believe each person is the architect in creating the blueprint of their life.
Guided by the principles of self-determination, we support people with disabilities living, loving, learning, working, worshipping, and playing as valued citizens who contribute to and receive the benefits of belonging to the communities where they choose to live.
Collaborating and consulting with an international network of person-centered thinkers, Eiros provides innovative person-centered supports based on the hopes, dreams, and desires of the person.
Bridges Support Coordination is dedicated to assisting you in discovering services and supports that maximize the potential of those you care about.
Founded in Service, Known for Service, Pride in Service, and the Future in Service. For over 25 years, Service Access & Management is committed to its vision of leaving everyone, better off!
PPL supports you and your family in that choice to remain in your home and community as a Financial Management Service Provider.
COMPASSIONATE PEOPLE
Let's Collaborate!
Proud Members of DDD's
Support Coordination
Leadership Forum
