Self-Directed Support

The RIPIN Self-Directed Support Program (SDSP) provides resources and support for eligible consumers with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, their families, and trusted allies utilizing the self-directed model for lifelong services through Rhode Island’s Division of Developmental Disabilities.

RIPIN’s SDSP will provide training, education, and resources to help consumers navigate the self-directed system and make informed decisions about their services. The program will also work to build infrastructure and support to make the self-directed system more transparent and consistent while continuing to foster the philosophy of self-determination inherent to the model.

2025 Self-Direction Learning Opportunities

Download our 2025 Training Schedule (PDF)

Registration links are coming soon.

RIPIN Self-Directed Support Program - Learning and Connection Opportunities for January to Jun 2025. Workshop calendar with links to registration. Self-direction programming for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities #selfdirectedsupport

Check Out Our Monthly Newsletter – The Navigator!

A banner for our newsletter with the ocean and rocks stacked up in the background. The text reads "the navigator: news and resources from RIPIN's self-directed support program. This newsletter supports self-direction caregivers and individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities connect to events and services.

Meet us in your inbox monthly as we share engaging information, resources, and events about our program and self-direction in Rhode Island.

Read Previous Issues

This newsletter began in May of 2024. In September, a Spanish version was created as well.

To view an issue from the past, click on the month you want to see.

En Septiembre de 2024 se puso en marcha una edición en Español. Para ver estas ediciones, haga clic en el mes escrito en Español.

Self-Direction Resources

Click the button below to view our previously recorded content on Self-Directed topics.

Recorded Presentations

Recursos en español

Auto dirección 101 [PDF PowerPoint]

Que is ISP? [PDF PowerPoint]

The “Disability News You Can Use” Podcast interviewed RIPIN’s Sue Donovan, Senior Program Director, and Sharon Kochan, Program Manager, about RIPIN’s self-directed support program. – Listen HERE [AUDIO]

The Link with your Community Guide cover image with hands joined in a circle. The Link with your Community Guide helps caregivers and individuals find activities in Rhode Island.

This guide can be a tool for finding meaningful and fun activities in your community and beyond. Link with Your Community Guide [PDF]

Self-Directed Supports Network [www.sdsri.net]

If you or a family member in Rhode Island uses self-directed supports or services and want to access helpful information, get updates, and connect with others, consider joining the Self-Directed Supports Network, coordinated by the Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities.

This network includes an email list of individuals, families, and professionals who support those using self-directed services. It’s a safe place to share, discuss ideas and concerns, ask questions, and learn from others.

You can also take part in our regular Self-Directed Support Network meetings. These meetings cover important topics related to self-direction, where speakers discuss key issues, and attendees can ask questions, voice concerns, and meet others using self-directed supports. These meetings take place via Zoom, typically from 7-8:30 p.m. on the third or fourth Wednesday of each month.

For more information, visit www.sdsri.net. If you have questions, please get in touch with Crystal Cerullo at [email protected].

View a recorded presentation conducted in partnership with the Sherlock Center [VIDEO]