Links / Websites

Listen to a recording of a webinar presenting strategies for program administrators to consider as they determine how to provide FMS in their Community Living and Veteran Directed programs. Topics include how to decide on a model of FMS, whether to contract for Financial Management Services, provide them "in-house" at the AAA, or use a hybrid approach. Accompanying tip sheets and documents are included.

Looking to develop guidance materials for veterans participating in a VD-HCBS program? Here are samples from Washington’s program, including a handbook with information on meeting program staff, developing a spending plan and working with FMS. Also find a Policy & Procedure Handbook including an overview of the program, desired outcomes, eligibility, referral procedures, forms and protocols for assessment, enrollment and reimbursement.

A Southwestern Pennsylvania demonstration program has been initiated to promote relationship-centered care for elders and people living with disabilities in need of home and community-based services and supports. It involves a series of five three-day train-the-trainer programs based on the state model for personal care aides (PCAs). Included are the announcement and a fact sheet on direct-care workers in Pennsylvania.

Looking for an organization that provides training and resources for self-advocates? This network’s goal is to prepare self-advocates for leadership roles in guiding developmental disabilities systems change in ways that promote self-determination, community integration and participant-driven supports. The organization developed “My Voice, My Choice,” a curriculum described in detail on the website, which also includes toolkits, training opportunities and more.

Looking for a reference guide for recruiting, hiring, & retaining employees with disabilities? This is a quick reference guide geared towards employers outlining the advantages of hiring people with disabilities, along with four simple steps towards increasing their inclusiveness in the workforce. With numerous resources and Web links, this is a helpful tool for organizations looking to benefit from the talents of qualified individuals with disabilities.

How are states getting the word out about the latest changes to their MIG programs as they continue to grow and evolve? Nevada posts new information in their “What's New” column on the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services website. Listing the most up to date information in this manner provides a useful way of keeping visitors as up-to-date as possible about their program and provides good incentive for return visits. It is an approach that could be beneficial to other states.

How is Pennsylvania marketing its MIG program called "Works for Me"? In October 2009, the Works For Me website went live, as did their billboards, TV ads and a direct mail campaign. Attached is a link to the website for this program which offers an audio version of each web page, sample newsletters, brochure, and billboard artwork. These samples could be useful to other states starting a MIG program of their own and/or interested in creating cohesive marketing campaigns.

The Sherlock Plan is the name of Rhode Island’s MIG program. It allows qualified working people with disabilities to earn more income without the risk of losing vital health care coverage. To inform consumers about the program, they have provided a plan overview, fact sheets in Spanish and English, and more information on their "Rhodes to Independence" website. Samples of these documents and a link to the site are available.

How are states making personal assistance services an effective reality for consumers? North Dakota created The Registry, a website designed to help connect seniors, people with disabilities, and family members using personal assistance services and various home and community based services, with available providers of HCBS such as Qualified Services Providers. A link to this site and marketing materials are attached, and could serve as templates for other MIG states.

How are states using online resources to educate consumers about their choices? The state of Utah developed a resource site for the following areas: Employment, Benefits, Education and Training, Housing, Transportation, Finances and Money Management, Legal and Advocacy, Assistive Technology, Healthy Living. A link to the site is available and could serve as an example to other MIG states.