Introducing the California Self-Determination Program
Do you know about regional center’s best kept secret?
The Self-Determination Program (SDP) offers you choice in how you receive your regional center services.
There are two options in how to receive your regional center service: the traditional system and the Self-Determination Program (SDP). The Self-Determination Program is a voluntary choice for people who receive services from a California regional center. It gives individuals with developmental disabilities more choice and control over the help they get.
In SDP you are not required to use vendored services. You can choose who helps you—including family, friends, or community helpers.
The Self-Determination Program is based on five key principles:
1. Freedom
You have the right to make your own choices about how you live your life.
2. Authority
You control your budget and how your money is spent.
3. Support
You choose the people and services that help you reach your goals.
4. Responsibility
You use your budget in a safe and legal way to meet your needs.
5. Confirmation
You are the decision-maker in your life, and your voice is the most important..
These principles help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have more control and live the life they want.
Learn More through our Monthly Meetings:
For Participants:
Join SDI as we walk Step-by-Step through the enrollment process!
2026 Schedule:
To be announced.
View our previous YouTube videos:
Grab your lunch and join Kristianna to make connections and build a strong SDP community!
Meet financial management services and providers at each meeting.
View our previous YouTube videos:
For Providers:
Join Kristianna and Jeremy for the SDP Providers Collaborative, where you’ll meet fellow SDP providers and local businesses interested in SDP. We’ll get together to share ideas, trade best practices, network, learn, and grow together.
2026 Schedule:
April 20, July 20, and October 19
Coming soon
This week in SDP:
Kern Regional Center (KRC) – Local Self-Determination Advisory Committee
Regional Center of the East Bay (RCEB) – Local Self Determination Advisory Committee
KRC-Independent Facilitator Roundtable (Professional IFs only)
Disability Voices United – SDP Connect
South Central Los Angeles Regional Center (SCLARC) – Local Self-Determination Advisory Committee
North Bay Regional Center Local Volunteer Advisory Meeting
NLACRC Independent Facilitator Round Table