How do individuals become customers of Inclusion?
The process for entering Support Services begins with an application through the County Developmental Disabilities Case Manager. If they find the person eligible for Brokerage services, they refer the application to us. At that point, we will arrange to meet, discuss support needs and work together to create a plan (which is called an Individualized Support Plan, or ISP) that meets those needs.
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What is a Brokerage?
A Brokerage is an agency that helps people with developmental disabilities look for and purchase supports (like respite care and skills training) and also find the people who provide these supports (qualified providers and agencies). The Brokerage is a direct outcome of the Staley Settlement.
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What is the Staley Settlement?
In 2000, six people with developmental disabilities and their families sued the State of Oregon due to the long waiting lists for services, and general concern for the quality of services people were receiving. The parties settled out of court, with several agreements, which included changing the way Case Management happens for individuals. One goal for the Staley Settlement is to eliminate the waiting list forever. Another goal is to provide services in a Person Centered way, meaning that the individual directs her or his life and the services s/he receives, including how plan money is spent. Basically, this means that the individual directs what happens in their plan.
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What is Inclusion Inc.?
Inclusion Inc. is a Support Services Brokerage that works mostly with people living in Multnomah County. We do have some customers who live in Clackamas and Washington Counties as well. We are a 501(c)3, not for profit agency. Click here for more information.
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What is a Personal Agent (PA)?
A Personal Agent, or PA, is the main contact for customers at the Brokerage. Their job is to work with individuals to identify what supports they need and will assist in finding a way to meet these needs. The customers decide the best way to spend their money and who will be supporting them to reach these goals. The customer, their support circle (family, friends, etc.), and the PA will work together to create a plan to meet their needs. The PA will help their customers find providers and agencies to interview, get community resources, give advice about effective ways to spend plan dollars, and make sure that they are happy with the people they hire, and any other supports they purchase. Click here for more information.
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How much money can a customer use for services?
There are four possible levels of funding: General Fund, Base, Mid Range, and Base Plus. Everyone is eligible for at least the General Fund level, and most qualify for Base benefit level. If an individual has higher medical or behavioral support needs, they may qualify for the Mid Range or Base Plus benefit. They will need to complete an assessment with our Executive Director, Howard Miller, to see if they qualify for these levels of funding. The Personal Agents (PA’s) help determine which level of funding their customers are eligible for.
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