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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.
Supports and Services that Helped us on our Journey
Financial Planning
Microboard Ontario
A Microboard is a small, incorporated non-profit created around an individual, made up of trusted family and community members who provide governance and long-term support. It enables person-directed planning by focusing decisions on the individual’s goals, while offering accountability, stability, and continuity over time.
Henson Trust
A Henson Trust is a discretionary trust used in Canada to protect assets for a person with a disability while preserving eligibility for means-tested government benefits such as ODSP. Because the beneficiary does not have direct control over the funds, the trust allows financial support to be provided without affecting access to essential programs.
Transfer Payment Agencies
TPAs in Ontario are organizations that receive government funding and administer it to individuals and families for services such as Passport and SSAH. They provide the administrative structure (processing payments, compliance, offering guidance) while enabling families to maintain flexibility and control over how supports are delivered.
Developmental Services Ontario
Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) is the entry point for adults with developmental disabilities to access provincially funded services and supports in Ontario. It determines eligibility, assesses needs, and connects individuals and families to resources such as Passport funding and community-based programs.
Canada Disability Benefit
The Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) is a federal income support program designed to reduce poverty and improve financial security for working-age Canadians with disabilities. It provides direct payments to eligible individuals, complementing existing provincial supports while helping to promote greater independence and inclusion.
ODSP
The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) provides income and employment supports to eligible individuals with disabilities who are in financial need. It helps cover basic living expenses, health benefits, and offers employment assistance to support greater independence and participation in the community.
Family Managed Home Care
Family Managed Home Care (FMHC) is a program in Ontario that allows families to directly coordinate and manage home care services for their loved one, rather than relying solely on agency-delivered care. It provides funding and flexibility to hire support workers, tailor schedules, and respond more effectively to complex and changing needs.
Easter Seals
Easter Seals supports children and adults with disabilities through programs that promote independence, accessibility, and inclusion. Through services such as camps, funding assistance, and advocacy, Easter Seals helps individuals build skills, confidence, and meaningful participation in their communities.
Disability Tax Credit
The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a non-refundable federal tax credit that helps reduce income tax for individuals with prolonged physical or mental impairments, or their supporting family members. Eligibility is based on certification by a medical practitioner, and approval can also open access to other supports.
RDSP
The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a long-term savings program in Canada designed to help individuals with disabilities build financial security for the future. Contributions can grow tax-deferred, and the federal government may add grants and bonds, significantly increasing the value of the savings over time.
Passport Program
The Passport Program in Ontario provides funding for adults with developmental disabilities to access community participation, life skills development, and individualized supports. It offers flexibility for person-directed planning, allowing families and individuals to hire support workers, pursue activities, and build independence.
Places and Spaces
Windreach Farms
WindReach Farm is an inclusive community space in Ontario where individuals of all abilities engage in farm work, animal care, and therapeutic programs. It provides meaningful opportunities to build life skills, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging through hands-on, real-world experiences. WindReach has been instrumental in fostering a purposeful life.
Nova's Ark
Nova's Ark is a therapeutic farm in Whitby, Ontario that offers programs combining animal care, outdoor activity, and skill-building for individuals with diverse needs. Through hands-on experiences in a supportive environment, it helps participants build confidence, independence, and a strong connection to community.
IKEA
IKEA is recognized for its commitment to inclusive hiring, creating opportunities for people with disabilities to participate meaningfully in the workforce. By adapting roles, providing supportive environments, and focusing on individual strengths, IKEA helps employees build confidence, develop skills, and contribute as valued members of the team.
Holland Bloorview
Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital is a leading pediatric rehabilitation centre in Canada that supports children and youth with disabilities through clinical care, therapy, and research. It offers a wide range of programs focused on mobility, communication, and life skills, helping individuals build independence and participate fully in their communities.
Loblaw
Loblaws supports inclusive employment by creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to contribute meaningfully in roles such as personal shopping and customer service. Through structured tasks, supportive teams, and accessible work environments, Loblaw helps employees build confidence, develop practical skills, and participate fully in the workforce.
Consultants that have supported our journey
PooranLaw
PooranLaw is a Canadian law firm specializing in disability law, estates, and trusts, with a strong focus on supporting individuals with disabilities and their families. They provide legal guidance on areas such as Henson Trusts, ODSP eligibility, and long-term planning to help families protect assets and secure financial stability.
KCP Solutions
Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) is the entry point for adults with developmental disabilities to access provincially funded services and supports in Ontario. It determines eligibility, assesses needs, and connects individuals and families to resources such as Passport funding and community-based programs.
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