Most adult supports are chosen via eligible providers on HCBS waiver lists. However, some states have been toying with a new method that offers more flexibility and choice. In this conversation we explore what families have and have not liked about the newly rolled out Self Determination Program and why our family has decided to move away from provider lists and into this new option of funding supports.

About the Guest: Sonni Charness, Founder of Guidelight Group

Sonni Bendetson Charness brings over a decade of experience serving teens and adults with developmental disabilities and is an expert in community integration and employment supports. Sonni leads the team at Guidelight Group and also works personally with clients. 

Sonni's work on transition-to-adulthood and employment has been published in the Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation and in Research and Practice for Persons with Severe Disabilities. Sonni has been a featured expert on the LOMAH podcast and as a presenter at countless conferences including TASH, the Supported Life Conference, and the Statewide Conference on Self-Determination. 

Sonni is a member of the Board of Directors for California APSE, the state chapter of the nation’s leading advocacy organization promoting employment for people with disabilities. Sonni is a Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP), and is trained in Person-Centered Thinking and Independent Facilitation. 

Sonni obtained her master's degree in special education at Vanderbilt University, where she specialized in transition-to-adulthood and employment outcomes for students with moderate/severe disabilities. Sonni earned her bachelor's degree in child development from Tufts University.

Links to Mentioned Content

• Sonni on the LOMAH Podcast for the Transition Series - Episode #95 - School to Adult Services: Filling the Gaps

• Disaability Voices United

• Self Determination Program Connect Zoom Meetings

• Presentations on the San Gabriel / Pamona Regional Center YouTube channel presented by Guidelight Group.