Frequently Asked Questions

Congregate Connect primarily serves individuals in the Los Angeles area and surrounding counties. We work with multiple Regional Centers including South Central Los Angeles Regional Center, Harbor Regional Center, Regional Center of Orange County, Inland Regional Center, and Lanterman Regional Center. Contact us to confirm service availability in your specific area.

Independent Living Services (ILS) provides skills training to help individuals learn to live more independently. Services are typically a few hours per week focused on specific skill development like cooking, budgeting, or transportation.

Supported Living Services (SLS) provides more comprehensive, ongoing support for individuals living in their own homes. SLS can include 24/7 support if needed and covers a broader range of daily living assistance beyond skills training.

The right choice depends on the individual's current abilities, goals, and level of support needed. Read our detailed comparison guide →

Yes, Congregate Connect specializes in services for adults age 18 and older with developmental disabilities. We focus on supporting adults in achieving their independence and community integration goals.

Services are accessed through your Regional Center. Here's the general process:

• Contact your Regional Center Service Coordinator
• Request the specific service(s) you're interested in
• Participate in an IPP (Individual Program Plan) meeting
• Once services are authorized, you can choose Congregate Connect as your provider
• We'll arrange a meet-and-greet to ensure good fit
• Services begin once everything is in place

Not yet connected with a Regional Center? Contact your local Regional Center to begin the eligibility process.

Services provided through the Regional Center system are funded by the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS). Eligible individuals typically receive services at no direct cost to them or their families. The Regional Center handles authorization and payment to service providers like Congregate Connect.

The Individual Program Plan (IPP) is a collaborative meeting where you, your support team, and your Regional Center Service Coordinator develop a plan for services and supports. The IPP documents your goals, the services authorized to help you reach those goals, and how progress will be measured.

IPP meetings typically occur annually, but you can request a meeting anytime your needs change. Learn how to prepare for your IPP meeting →

Yes! Under California's Self-Determination and traditional service models, you have the right to choose your service providers. Once a service is authorized by the Regional Center, you can select any vendored provider that offers that service in your area. We encourage families to tour multiple providers and ask questions before making a decision.

Regional Centers are nonprofit organizations contracted by the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to coordinate services for individuals with developmental disabilities. There are 21 Regional Centers across California, each serving a specific geographic area. They assess eligibility, develop service plans, and connect individuals with service providers.

To be eligible for Regional Center services, an individual must have a developmental disability that:

• Originated before age 18
• Is expected to continue indefinitely
• Constitutes a substantial disability

Qualifying conditions include intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, and conditions requiring similar services. Contact your local Regional Center for an eligibility assessment.

You have rights if you disagree with a Regional Center decision about eligibility or services. You can:

• Request an informal meeting with a supervisor
• File a formal fair hearing request
• Contact Disability Rights California for advocacy support

Document all communications and keep copies of relevant paperwork. The Regional Center must provide written notice of decisions and your appeal rights.

Our initial meeting is an opportunity to get to know each other and ensure we're a good fit. We'll discuss the individual's goals, preferences, and support needs. You'll have a chance to ask questions about our approach, meet potential staff, and tour our facilities if applicable. There's no obligation—this meeting helps everyone make an informed decision.

All Congregate Connect staff undergo thorough background checks and must meet DDS requirements. Our training program includes:

• Person-centered planning and support
• Rights of individuals with disabilities
• Health and safety protocols
• Communication strategies
• Positive behavioral support
• Service-specific training for their role

We also provide ongoing supervision and continuing education for all staff members.

We believe communication is essential to quality care. Depending on the service and your preferences, communication may include regular progress notes, phone/email updates, scheduled check-in meetings, and participation in IPP meetings. We work with each family to establish a communication plan that works for everyone.

If you have concerns, please contact us right away. Many issues can be resolved through open communication and adjustments to the service plan. If services truly aren't a good fit, you have the right to change providers. We'll work with you and the Regional Center to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of care.