Self-Determination is the ability of individuals to make the choices that allow them to have control over their own lives, reach the goals they want, and get the skills and resources necessary to involve themselves fully in the community.

Principles

Freedom – to live a meaningful life in the community

Authority – over dollars needed for support
Support – to organize resources in ways that are life enhancing and meaningful
Responsibility – for the wise use of public dollars
Confirmation – of the important leadership role that self-advocates must hold in a newly designed system

Goal

Have a meaningful life deeply rooted in one’s community

• Exercise of ordinary freedom
• Earn income and become a productive member of society
• Engage in deep and personal relationships

Tools

Fiscal intermediaries – where public dollars for one’s support would be deposited
Individual budgets – translate life goals into line items in an approved budget