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Program Framework
The framework and programs created for Benji and Giulietta were intentionally designed to align with the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services’ long-term vision outlined in Journey to Belonging: Choice and Inclusion, which affirms that people with developmental disabilities should be supported by their communities, networks, and government to live inclusive lives and be empowered through person-directed, equitable, and sustainable supports.
The model is built on two complementary structures: a Microboard, providing governance, accountability, and long-term stability, and a Circle of Care, ensuring coordinated day-to-day implementation of individualized goals. Together, these structures translate policy into practice.
To support families who wish to build a similar framework, practical resources are available outlining government and self-directed funding options, the role of Transfer Payment Agencies in Ontario, and organizations that may offer meaningful guidance and support along the way.
A Model for Self-Directed Funding
Benji and Giulietta's program demonstrates that self-directed funding can produce real, measurable outcomes aligned with the vision of Ontario's Journey to Belonging framework.
The Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services released Journey to Belonging: Choice and Inclusion as its long term vision for developmental services reform, stating that "people with developmental disabilities are supported by their communities, support networks and government to belong and live inclusive lives" and that "people are empowered to make choices and live as independently as possible through supports that are person directed, equitable and sustainable."
The model built for Benji and Giulietta achieves each of these objectives. Through individualized supports, Microboard governance, and community integration, they have achieved employment, volunteering, skill development, and meaningful participation in their community. Their supports are not determined by a program or placement. They are designed around the individual, managed through an accountable governance structure, and delivered by a consistent team that knows them.
Benji and Giulietta hold jobs, contribute to their workplaces, and are recognized members of their community.
300+
Functional words learned through augmentative and alternative communication
700+
Hours of paid employment at IKEA for Benji
240+
Hours of paid employment at Loblaws for Giulietta
610+
hours of community volunteering
1460+
Meals prepared with growing independence
This model is sustainable because the Microboard provides governance continuity that does not depend on any one family member. It is accountable because funding flows through a legally incorporated nonprofit with financial reporting obligations. It is replicable because the framework (Microboard governance combined with a professional Circle of Care) can be adapted to support other individuals regardless of diagnosis or geography.
Self-directed funding made this possible. Without it, Benji and Giulietta would likely be on a waitlist for congregate or residential services that do not reflect their individual needs, interests, or potential. This site documents one example of what becomes achievable when individuals and families are given the tools, flexibility, and funding to lead their own planning. The goal is for this infrastructure to be publicly funded and available to all families, not only those with the personal resources to build it independently.
BUILDING THE FRAMEWORK
The framework is built on two components, each integral to creating an impactful care system for Benji and Guilietta.
The Microboard
A Microboard is a small non-profit corporation formed by family members and trusted friends to support a person with a disability. A Microboard was for Benji and Giulietta to anchor all decisions in their values, protect their rights, and provide stable governance that outlasts any single provider or funding cycle. It brings family and trusted allies together in a legally recognized structure that coordinates services, shares information responsibly, and acts quickly as needs change
Microboards Ontario
Microboards Ontario supports families in establishing incorporated, non-profit Microboards that provide individualized governance and long-term stability for a person with a disability. By centering decision-making around the individual and their trusted network, Microboards Ontario helps create accountable, person-directed structures that promote autonomy, inclusion, and sustainable supports.
The Circle of Care
Beyond family, Benji and Giulietta have a professional Circle of Care consisting of their one-on-one support workers, who function as caregivers, educators, friends, and trusted allies. They require dedicated care at all times to ensure their well-being and safety. They have developed strong, trusting relationships with their support workers over many years. These individuals have become like family. Each support worker understands Benji and Giulietta's unique goals. These close, consistent relationships built over time create a safe environment where they can grow in confidence and skills
Our Circle-of-Care Resources
External Resources
Framework Resources
This site illustrates what can be achieved when families have the flexibility and funding to build supports and lead their own planning around meaningful goals. The vision is for this kind of person-directed infrastructure to be publicly funded and accessible to all families. The shared resources highlight foundational structures that support a purposeful, self-directed life rooted in belonging.
Our Resources
External Resources
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