Indiana

Supporting individuals and families through person-centered planning, individualized services,
and Charting the LifeCourse principles.

Supporting Families in Indiana

ince joining the Community of Practice for Supporting Families in 2016, Indiana has incorporated Charting the LifeCourse principles and tools into its approach to person-centered planning and support services.

Through its Person-Centered Individualized Support Plan (PCISP), Indiana emphasizes the strengths of individuals and families, their vision for a good life, and what is important to and for them across life domains and stages.

What We Are Working On

Indiana focuses on incorporating Charting the LifeCourse principles into service planning, professional training, and resources that support individuals and families.

  • Person-Centered Individualized Support Planning
    Using the PCISP to guide waiver services planning around individual and family strengths, personal goals, and a vision for a good life across life domains and stages.
  • Training and Professional Development
    Providing training on PCISP development, service delivery, and the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Settings Rule, reinforcing the practical application of Charting the LifeCourse principles.
  • LifeCourse Tools and Resources
    Developing and sharing resources that apply Charting the LifeCourse principles and tools to help individuals and families navigate changing circumstances and support needs.

Innovation/Focus Areas

Kansas brings together state agencies and community organizations to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families through shared learning and collaboration.

  • Family Connections and Peer Support: Connecting families with others who share similar experiences through peer networks and family support programs.
  • Community-Based Supports: Expanding access to services that help individuals live independently in their homes and communities.
  • Family Education and Resources: Helping families access information, training, and guidance to navigate services and plan for the future.
  • Family Leadership: Creating opportunities for family leaders to connect, share experiences, and learn about innovations in family support.
  • Workforce and Caregiver Connections: Helping individuals and families find caregivers and the support they need.
  • Cross-Agency Collaboration: Bringing together state agencies and community partners to strengthen communication and coordinate family support efforts.

State Team Members

Kyle Ingram
Director of Policy and Strategic Initiatives
Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services
kyle.ingram@fssa.in.gov

 

Steve Upchurch
Training Director
Bureau of Rehabilitation Services
steve.upchurch@fssa.in.gov

 

Heather Dane

Facilitator
Chief Program Officer
Bureau of Disabilities Services
heather.dane@fssa.in.gov

State Team Success Stories

Person-Centered Individualized Support Planning

Indiana has incorporated Charting the LifeCourse principles into its Person-Centered Individualized Support Plan, which guides support planning for individuals receiving waiver services. The PCISP focuses on the strengths of individuals and families, their vision for a good life, and what is important to and for them within each life domain. It also considers a person’s current life stage while supporting planning for future life stages.

To reinforce these practices, Indiana has developed training on PCISP development, service delivery, and the HCBS Settings Rule. These trainings connect Charting the LifeCourse principles to everyday service delivery and professional practice.

LifeCourse Resources During the Public Health Emergency

During the COVID-19 public health emergency, Indiana developed toolkits and resources incorporating Charting the LifeCourse principles and tools. These materials helped apply LifeCourse approaches to the changing circumstances and support needs experienced during the public health emergency.

Resources and Highlights

Person-Centered Individualized Support Plan Guide

Indiana’s Person-Centered Individualized Support Plan Guide provides guidance for developing individualized support plans that reflect a person’s strengths, priorities, and vision for a good life. The guide supports the use of person-centered planning practices within Indiana’s waiver services.

View and Download the PCISP Guide (PDF)

Supporting Links

Indiana State Team Lead Partners/Agencies