As part of the Illinois Association of Microboards and Cooperatives, a project of the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities, Devora's Dream was established as a microboard to arrange services that will allow Devora to "live the life she wants to live!" A microboard is a non-profit organization that is intended to benefit one person. A microboard allows an individual to have control over his or her support services and this lets Devora, her family and her friends work together to determine what is best for her.
A microboard is an alternative or a supplement to state-wide programs that may only address certain aspects of an individual's life such as education, health or employment. In a state-wide program some individuals are underserved or not served at all given the unique abilities and limitations of each person needing services. A microboard provides an avenue for people who know the individual best to develop a flexible support system of services rather than social workers or other consultants who may not consider every individual's specific needs. A microboard is often used to supplement social services already in place by the government and community.
A major part of establishing a microboard is developing a specific plan that addresses the goals and dreams of the individual. These plans are called a PATH or Planning Alternatives for Tomorrow with Hope. A PATH centers itself around the person it benefits and is completely custom designed. It is all inclusive and considers the whole person, not just services of care but also how the individual wants to interact with the greater community.
View Devora's PATH here
Please visit these websites for more information on microboards.
Illinois Association of Microboards and Cooperatives