|
 About Human Service Cooperatives
Human
Service Cooperatives play a role that is similar to traditional agencies, with a
major difference: governing authority and responsibility are placed entirely in
the hands of member-owners – the individual people who are served and their
personal representatives (typically close friends and family members).
This kind of
empowerment gives people control of their lives, power over their
choices, and control of their human services.
For detailed information about Human
Service Cooperatives, see the Federated
Human Service Co-op website.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is a Human Service Co-op?
Human Service Co-ops are not just human service providers. They are companies where individuals with disabilities, their families and friends have come together, to share in ownership and direction of the company.
Services provided are determined by the members and may include: respite, attendant care, personal care, employment, residential, therapy services and more.
When certified as a self directed company, they may choose to join the Federated HSC and use the HSC® trademark.
How is a Human Service Co-op different from a traditional provider?
Human Service Co-ops provide a self-directed platform that brings people together and connects them to their community. Members have a real voice, share in leadership, have one vote, learn from one another and lead together.
Like a traditional provider the co-op must follow the same rules and regulations set in the Federal waiver, however since you own the co-op, the Direct Support Professionals who provide day to day support are your employees. You choose who works for you. There is a big difference when the person coming into your home sees you as their employer rather than a traditional provider. The co-op members also decide what services they will provide.
Co-ops are member owned and directed, to be a member you must use the services of the co-op. Every member (or appointed representative) has a vote and elects its Board of Directors 80% of the Board must be a member owner or their representative.
For those who want an alternative way to self-direct and who want to have a say in how their services are managed, the co-op method will provide the opportunity to make it happen. Each member has more control over their services and the members decide what to do with any surplus funds the co-op might have at the end of the year. The possibilities are numerous.
Does a Human Service Co-op give more access to services than a Microboard?
One is not inherently better than the other. Whether you work toward developing a microboard or a cooperative is a matter of need and preference. Those who are looking to be part of a community of individuals with similar service needs may wish to create or join a cooperative. Those who would benefit more from a circle of support around their specific needs may pursue developing a microboard. The reasons for choosing a cooperative over a microboard and vice a versa are as varied as individuals themselves. It takes time to determine which is right for you – so feel free to call on us and we’ll be happy to discuss it.
What role do I play as a member or a member representative in a Human Service Co-op?
You are part of a community. Our greatest strength is being together; “The Power of Many”. Everyone together forms the quality of the co-op and helps to maintain a focus on service.
Every member brings their own service needs and their unique strengths to the co-op. For many members this will vary over time depending on what is happening in their lives.
There are many opportunities to be involved including but not limited to: networking, moral support, participation on committees, being on the board, helping in the office, supporting one another and helping the co-op to stay focused on what is important. The membership of each co-op further defines these opportunities based on needs and the talents of their community. Again the idea of a co-op is to build community recognizing that no one person can do everything and together we are stronger.
What services can the Human Service Co-op provide?
A co-op can seek approval for a number of services including Personal Assistance, Respite, Supported Living, CILA and Transportation.
Additionally, like any human service business the co-op can contract to do other business based on the needs of its members. The bottom line is that you decide who you contract with and what service you provide.
How do I get started?
Come to an information session or an in-depth session first. Check our website for locations and dates: www.managingtheartofliving.org. Decide if this method of service that would work for you.
If you and your group want to proceed, contact Wendy Partridge or Teri Steinberg to schedule a co-op training. Our project consultants, Holly and Gale Bohling of Federated HSC will share with you experiences of other Human Service Co-ops plus established templates and other tools to support your development. You will be part of a national movement.
One of the first steps is developing a mission statement and a vision statement.
Can you give examples of a vision and mission statement of an existing cooperative?
MISSION STATEMENT
To create and maintain an environment that empowers individuals through self-determination to direct and control supports, services and funds in promoting community life.
VISION STATEMENT
Inspire, HSC will be financially stable provider in Maricopa County that allows flexibility and innovation in self-directed supports and services for individuals.
|
