June 2024 Edition

Learning Corner

Dive into training and tips to enhance your understanding and skills as an EOR!

Unlock the ABCs of Self-Directed Services: A Glossary for Employers of Record (EOR) 

Understanding key abbreviations in Self-Directed Services (SDS) is essential for EORs to navigate services smoothly. Here are some common ones you should know: 

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SDS Spotlight

Stay informed about the latest developments and changes in Self-Directed Services.

Welcome to the world of Adult Activity Centers! These centers, previously called Adult Day Centers, play a vital role in supporting recipients who utilize their services but are now known by a new name to denote differences between the two types of centers. All adult centers offer support, structure, engagement, and/or health services for adults with disabilities. They create a welcoming space that fosters connection and enrichment through supervised activities. However, while Adult Day Centers are licensed and contracted with the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA), Adult Activity Centers do not have this requirement.

Important Note: It is essential to understand that ONLY Adult Activity Centers can be covered under SDS. Licensed Adult Day Centers CANNOT be covered under SDS, only through Traditional Services. Keep this in mind as you explore the options available to recipients.  

Please visit here to access a list of approved SDS vendors. This comprehensive (but not exhaustive) list includes unlicensed Adult Activity Centers that have been utilized with SDS. If you have any questions about this process, please reach out to your Case Manager.

Save the Date

Be the first to hear about upcoming events and opportunities.

Celebrating Success!

We’re thrilled to announce that our recent event, the Self-Directed Services Family Meeting, was a resounding success! We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended and contributed to the event’s outcome.

One family that attended the event said that DDS was “able to answer questions in person and [we could] see the people helping [us] and other families. [It was like] coming together as a big family! Thank you!”

Another family said, “everything was well put together and organized for our families…thank you for caring and going above and beyond for us!” 

At the heart of DDS’ mission lies the well-being of families and recipients. We hope that you had a wonderful time, gained valuable insights, and connected with fellow attendees, DDS staff, and community vendors. Your engagement is what makes the SDS community thrive!

Last Chance: Your Feedback Matters!

To ensure we continue delivering impactful experiences, we invite those of you who attended the SDS Family Meeting to share your thoughts through our feedback survey. Your input will guide us in shaping future events, tailoring them to meet your needs and aspirations.

Stay tuned for information on future events!  

Community Connect

Let’s foster peer connections and build a supportive network by sharing success stories in our community!

SunHive Collective: A Beacon of Support for Young Adults With Disabilities 

In the heart of Norman lies SunHive Collective, a non-profit organization committed to enriching the lives of young adults with disabilities aged 18 and above. Their mission? To foster freedom, purpose, and personal development through hands-on experiences that empower and uplift. 

The story begins with Hannah, who was born with a rare condition. Her mother, Melissa, driven by love and determination, founded SunHive Collective. But she wasn’t alone in this endeavor. Hannah’s former special education teacher, Loralei, shared Melissa’s vision to create a nurturing space specifically for young adults with disabilities. Their five-year collaborative passion project has resulted in a safe and inviting environment for all who enter through their doors. 

At SunHive, an Adult Activity Center, it’s all about tailoring offerings to individual needs. Weekly goals are customized to each participant, whether it’s mastering handwashing techniques or practicing social interactions. The organization adapts seamlessly, accommodating individuals with a diverse array of needs. 

SunHive has a lasting impact on those who access their services. A lifelong friend of Hannah’s had always faced challenges with speech and communication, but SunHive worked its magic, and Hannah’s friend blossomed, becoming more talkative and significantly improving her speech. Her parents reveled in conversations with her that had never been possible before she attended SunHive. 

SunHive is much more than a day program. They also host sunset socials—gatherings filled with games, karaoke, and dancing. These events provide a vibrant backdrop for connection, laughter, and shared experiences. For updates on events like these, check out SunHive’s website and social media channels.

Interested families can schedule a tour and meet the team. Trial days are available for those who want to see if SunHive is right for their loved one. Families from outside the county are welcome as long as they’re willing to drive. 

For more details, visit the SunHive Collective website here or connect on Instagram here.

Physical Address

5201 24th Ave NE Norman, OK 73071

Phone

(405) 630-8319

Email

sunhivecollective@gmail.com

Building Together

You asked, we answered! Here you will find responses to your most commonly asked questions and helpful information to streamline the EOR process.

Can a vendor be paid for services provided before the Acumen “Good to Go” date?

Acumen will not be able to pay for any vendor service provided prior to getting the “Good to Go” date from Acumen. Once Acumen has everything they need, an email will be sent to you that will have a specific date as the “Good to Go.” Services provided prior to that date will be the responsibility of the EOR to pay. 

Can the Habilitation Training Specialist (HTS) go to an Adult Activity Center with the service recipient? 

No. Also, many Adult Activity Centers will not allow the HTS to attend with the service recipient; however, please let your Case Manager know if there are extenuating circumstances.

Can a minor attend an Adult Activity Center?

No. An individual has to be 18 to attend an Adult Activity Center. DDS cannot fund day programs for minors. 

Do you have more questions about Self-Directed Services?

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