Alternatives to Guardianship
This training offers a clear overview of alternatives to guardianship and why less restrictive options are explored first. Participants will learn how adults can be supported to make decisions in areas like health care, finances, and education, and gain a practical understanding of what guardianship does—and does not—cover. The session emphasizes informed choice, autonomy, and the importance of tailoring supports to each individual.
By the end of this training, participants will be able to:
Supported Decision Making: An Alternative to Guardianship
This training introduces Supported Decision-Making (SDM), a person-centered, rights-based alternative to guardianship. SDM emphasizes autonomy, dignity, and the fundamental right of people with disabilities to make their own life decisions with support—not substitution. Research consistently shows that people with stronger self-determination experience better health, employment, independence, and safety outcomes. Because everyone uses support to make decisions, SDM recognizes decision-making as a skill that grows through opportunity, practice, and trust. This training is designed for families, educators, service providers, and others who support transition-age youth or adults with disabilities.
By the end of this training, participants will be able to:
Supported Decision Making: Putting the Pieces Together
This hands-on workshop builds on the introductory Supported Decision-Making (SDM) training and guides participants through identifying the components and supports they could use to create a SDM plan. After brief instructional segments, participants will have dedicated work time to explore what types of decision-making supports and strategies work best for themselves or the person they support. Facilitators will provide 1:1 assistance throughout the session. Participants will leave with examples, and components they can use for an SDM agreement.
By the end of this training, participants will be able to: