Why Planning Matters for People With IDD
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) thrive when there’s a strong plan for their future. From setting goals to building support networks, learn why planning matters and how to get started.
Explore Planning Resources
Family members, friends, and professionals all have roles to play in helping a person with IDD build a strong future plan. A good plan creates stability, identifies opportunities, and establishes the right support for the years ahead.
Explore personalized guides and learn how
you can support the planning process.
Resources for People With IDD
You have the right to make choices about your life and future. Learn how to talk about what you want, set goals, and take the lead in your own planning.
Resources for Parents
You play a key role in creating a plan that reflects your child’s needs, strengths, and hopes for the future. Learn how to build a strong team and start planning.
Resources for Siblings
Understanding that your sibling may need support throughout their life is the first step in planning for the future together. Learn how you can help plan for what’s ahead.
Resources for Professionals
You support people every day and have a role to play in helping families plan. Discover tools to help center the person with IDD and strengthen the planning team.
Resources for Family & Friends of People with IDD
Trusted family members and friends can offer guidance and support for people with IDD and their immediate family. Find out how to be part of the planning process.
Ready for your next step?
Let’s Build a Future Plan
A written future plan—sometimes called a letter of intent—captures important personal details about a person with IDD, including their daily routines, preferences, and goals. It creates a roadmap for family and supporters to follow.
Keep Life Consistent
Make sure life feels familiar and comfortable, even when circumstances change.
Make Decisions Easier
Prevent confusion about health care, finances, lifestyle choices, and more.
Strengthen Your Overall Plan
Get a complete picture of the person’s life to support financial and legal planning.
Planning for the future is essential.
Watch people with disabilities, family members, and professional planners talk about how they have handled different areas of future planning.