ACCESS Project

F.I.R.S.T. ACCESS Project is a resource to help individuals and families access community based Developmental Disability Services by educating families on state and federal service systems through group and individual trainings.  The goal of the ACCESS Project is to teach individuals with developmental disabilities and their families/support networks what to expect from public supports and how to self-advocate within the system. Our hope is that persons will learn what is available, who does what, and what needs to be done to make things happen successfully.  The ACCESS Project was funded by Western Highlands to serve Buncombe, Henderson, Madison, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania and Yancey counties.

With the 2009 North Carolina State budgets cuts the ACCESS Project has been discontinued, but F.I.R.S.T. wants the materials created for this project to be available to help families who are looking to received services or currently are receiving state or federal services. You can learn what’s available and then decide if you want to follow-through now or later.  If you are currently receiving services you have the knowledge about what services are supposed to be and how to access the ones you need.

Go through the trainings and handouts and use what you like. You can call our office if you have questions; we look forward to helping you and your family.

• Step by Step Guide
• Flow Chart for services in Western Highlands Network
• Key Values of Person Centered Plan
• Being Prepared for Person Centered Plan Worksheet
• Checklist for Case Management
• Checklist for Staff
• PowerPoint of ACCESS Project