Department of Developmental Services (DDS), Service Access & Equity (2022–2023)

Funded and supported by the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS), Service Access and Equity, this project focused on increasing access to Regional Center services for Resource Parents and their youth aged 14–18.

The project aimed to address disparities in Purchase of Services (POS) experienced by youth with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities and/or those receiving or eligible for Lanterman services through a two-pronged approach:

  1. Resource Parent Education
    Resource Parents received guidance on pathways and strategies to secure developmental, educational, and medical rights for their youth. This training empowered them to effectively advocate for foster youth in accessing both Regional Center and generic services.

  2. Foster Youth Empowerment and Education
    Youth received education on Regional Center services through:

    • Individual peer mentoring provided by Peer Ambassador Teams, consisting of a Peer Ambassador Self-Advocate and a Peer Ambassador Former Foster Youth.

    • Youth empowerment workshops and group training designed to prepare participants to become self-advocates and active stakeholders in the Regional Center services system.

Through this initiative, both Resource Parents and youth gained the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to navigate the Regional Center system effectively. By fostering advocacy, empowerment, and self-determination, the project not only improved access to essential services but also strengthened the voices of youth and families within the developmental services community, laying the foundation for lasting positive impact.