Self-Direction: Living a Self-Directed Life
Meet Justin Azanero
Every week, Justin Azanero, 24, looks forward to his favorite activities – art, music, and Zumba classes – all made possible through Self-Direction services.
Citizens offers Self-Direction, a program that empowers people with developmental disabilities to take charge of their lives by choosing the supports and services that best match their needs, interests, and goals.
While Self-Direction builds independence, it is by no means accomplished alone. With the help of his mother, Flora, and brothers, Irwin and Charley, Justin is building a more independent and fulfilling life focused on his interests of fitness and the arts.
Because every person’s goals and needs are different, Self-Direction allows for highly personalized planning – whether that means finding a job, taking a class or living more independently with the support of trusted family, friends, or staff.
The Azanero family learned about Self-Direction through their Care Manager, who helped Justin find the right supports and services to build his circle of support team, including a broker who helps in developing his budget.
Justin also works with a Community Habilitation staff member. Together, they work on establishing a positive daily routine, which includes cleaning, cooking, laundry and playing Monopoly to work on counting money. Through Self-Direction, Justin funds a gym membership and attends yoga and Zumba classes. On weekends, he plays in a local soccer league, TopSoccer, where he competes, exercises, and socializes with fellow players.
Now that Justin has a busier schedule, his family has noticed that he is happier and more engaged.
Empowered by Self-Direction and backed by a strong family, Justin is discovering new passions, building independence, and thriving on his own terms.
About Self-Direction
People who are eligible for OPWDD services and enrolled in the Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver can choose to self-direct their services. Self-Direction offers greater flexibility for people who want to make decisions about their own supports — independently or with help.
Since 2015, Citizens Options Unlimited has offered Self-Direction to build purpose and choice. People who receive Self-Direction live at home with their family, live on their own in apartments, attend day services or use community habilitation services.
Currently, over 140 people receive Self-Direction services through Citizens. To determine if you or a loved one is eligible for Self-Direction services, Citizens Options Unlimited provides Fiscal Intermediary services to work with Brokers and Care Managers to get approval.
Learn more about Self-Direction Services at Citizens Options Unlimited.