Hiring a Support Person in the Self-Determination Program (SDP)

This guide will help you find, hire, and onboard the right support people for your plan—like aides, coaches, or mentors.

1. What Kind of Help Do You Need?

Think about your IPP goals. You might need:

• A life coach to help with time management

• A personal aide for safety or communication

• A tutor or mentor for specific skills (like cooking or fitness)

Write a short list of what tasks you want this person to help with.

2. Where to Look for Support Providers

• Ask friends or therapists if they know anyone

• Use Care.com, SitterCity, Facebook, or local colleges

• Search "SDP Providers" or "disability support workers near me"

• Contact local non-profits or day programs (they may have staff looking for extra hours)

3. What to Include in a Job Post

Example:

"Looking for a kind and patient part-time support worker for a young adult with autism. Help with cooking, organizing daily tasks, and going out in the community. Flexible schedule. Paid through FMS. Must be reliable."

Include:

• Hourly rate

• Location or if remote

• General schedule (mornings, weekends, flexible?)

• Tasks and qualities needed

4. Interview Tips

• Meet over Zoom or in person

• Ask about their experience with disability or similar work

• Talk about your goals and routines

• Trust your instincts—this should be someone who “fits” your life

Sample questions:

• What’s your experience with [autism, mobility support, behavior plans]?

• What do you enjoy about this kind of work?

• Are you reliable and comfortable working with a family directly?

5. FMS Paperwork and Onboarding

Once you choose someone:

• Let your IF and FMS know

• FMS will send them onboarding paperwork

• They may need to submit ID, forms, background check info

They cannot start working until the FMS says they’re approved.

6. Create a Simple Agreement

You can write a simple list together:

• What they’ll help with

• Schedule

• Rate of pay

• Expectations for showing up and communicating

This helps avoid misunderstandings later.

Need help writing the job post or interview questions? Ask your Independent Facilitator—we’re here to support you through the process!