ADAPT COMMUNITY NETWORK-Supported Decision-Making Creating a Future of Autonomy & Competence for Persons with Intellectual and / or Developmental Disabilities (I/DD)

This workshop will discuss the exciting shifts in attitudes and practice that result when Supported Decision Making (SDM) is implemented in place of guardianship. By gaining an understanding how SDM differs from guardianship, participants will learn how the Supported Decision-Making New York (SDMNY) project has enhanced the self-determination, independence, inclusion, and dignity of individuals with I/DD, while preserving the right to legal capacity and decision-making power in their lives. The presentation will explain how the SDMNY facilitation process works with a wide spectrum of persons with I/DD and autism. The presentation will also discuss the impact of the new SDM law. Participants will come away from the presentation with: an understanding of how the 17-A guardianship law in NY State affects the rights of persons with I/DD; clear knowledge of how the SDMNY 3-phase facilitation process works, a broad view of how Supported Decision Making Agreements (SDMAs) are being utilized by individuals with I/DD and an understanding of the impact of the new SDM Law (NY Mental Hygiene Law Article 82).