Introduction
For individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, accessing vocational services can be life-changing—but navigating the funding process through the San Diego Regional Center (SDRC) often feels overwhelming. With over [X] years of experience helping clients secure and utilize SDRC funding, Blessing and Assets has developed a proven system to simplify this complex process. This comprehensive guide will walk you through eligibility requirements, covered services, application strategies, and how our team can serve as your advocate every step of the way.
SDRC Fundamentals – What Every Family Should Know
Understanding the IPP (Individual Program Plan)
The IPP is the cornerstone of SDRC services. Think of it as:
- A legally binding document outlining needed supports
- A living document that evolves with your loved one’s goals
- The key to unlocking funding for employment services
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for vocational funding, your loved one must:
✔ Have a qualifying developmental disability (autism, cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, etc.)
✔ Be a California resident
✔ Have an active IPP with SDRC
Pro Tip: If you’re new to the system, request an intake appointment with SDRC at least 6 months before services are needed.
The Funding Landscape
SDRC operates under California’s Lanterman Act, which mandates:
- Person-centered planning
- Least restrictive environment
- Community integration
Funding comes from state and federal sources, with annual budget cycles affecting availability.
Vocational Services Covered by SDRC
Comprehensive Employment Support
SDRC typically funds these critical services:
| Service | Description | Average Hours Funded |
|---|---|---|
| Job Development | Employer outreach and job matching | 40-60 hours |
| Job Coaching | On-site training and support | 3-6 months |
| Vocational Training | Skill-building for specific industries | Varies by need |
| Discovery Process | Strengths/interest assessments | 20-40 hours |
Lesser-Known But Valuable Services
Many families miss these covered options:
- Transportation training
- Workplace assistive technology
- Benefits planning (to understand how earnings affect SSI)
- Small business startup support for entrepreneurial clients
What’s Not Typically Covered
Be aware of common exclusions:
✖ General college tuition
✖ Competitive employment in segregated settings
✖ Services already available through other systems (like DOR)
The Funding Approval Process – Step by Step
Preparing for Your IPP Meeting
90 days before your meeting:
- Document vocational goals with our team
- Gather supporting assessments (psychological, occupational therapy, etc.)
- Research comparable services to justify requests
The Art of Writing Vocational Goals
Effective goals are:
✅ Specific: “Client will work 15 hrs/week in retail with supports”
✅ Measurable: “Master 3 food safety protocols by 6/30/2025”
✅ Fundable: Aligned with SDRC’s service categories
Example of a Fundable Goal:
“Through supported employment services, [Client] will obtain and maintain part-time employment in a community-based setting with a maximum 1:3 staff-to-client ratio for 6 months, then transition to natural supports.”
After Approval – Making the Most of Your Funding
- Track service hours meticulously
- Request progress reports from providers
- Schedule 6-month check-ins with your SDRC coordinator
How Blessing and Assets Simplifies the Process
Our End-to-End Support
We handle:
📋 Initial assessments and goal development
📞 Coordination with SDRC service coordinators
📊 Documentation and progress reporting
⚖️ Appeals if services are initially denied
Success Story: Maria’s Journey
Maria’s family initially had SDRC funding denied for job coaching. Our team:
- Reviewed the denial letter
- Gathered additional medical documentation
- Requested a fair hearing
- Secured 6 months of funded services
“Without Blessing and Assets advocating for us, we would have given up. Now Maria has her dream job at the library!” – The Gonzalez Family
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can funding be used for remote/work-from-home jobs?
A: Yes! We’ve helped clients secure accommodations for virtual positions.
Q: What if my loved one’s needs change?
A: IPPs can be amended—contact us to request an interim review