Mat’s Story: Building Stability, Independence, and a Future

For Mat self-direction isn’t just a service model – it’s the foundation that allows him to work, lead, and live independently. At 39 years old, Mat supports himself and his brother, who lives with autism and schizophrenia and recently moved into Mat’s home....

Seen, Supported, and Included: Abby’s Story

For Abby, self-direction means living a life that is active, connected, and centered upon her own choices. Before self-direction, Abby participated in a traditional program with rigid schedules, limited flexibility, and frequent staff changes. While those settings...

My Life, My Choice: Spencer’s Story

Spencer is an artist, an explorer, and a young man who knows exactly what he wants from life. Through self-direction, he has built a life shaped by his passions and, most importantly, his own choices. Spencer was born in China and adopted at age four. Early language...

Urgent Action Required to Protect Maryland Self-Direction

The proposed $150 million in cuts to the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) services are not just numbers on a budget sheet — they represent real people, real families, and real lives that will be directly affected. These reductions would destabilize...

Supported with Dignity: Desi’s Story

For Desi, self-direction means living a life shaped by his choices and being understood on his own terms. At 46 years old, Desi self-directs his services with a team designed around his preferences, communication style, and daily routines. Desi does not use spoken...