Personal Supports
Depending on each person's needs, maximizing life skills while promoting community inclusion may require different levels and types of support. Customized community and in-home, person-centered assistance make it possible for adults with disabilities to live independently or remain in their family home, while still receiving the supports they need to thrive.
At The Arc, we recognize that no two people are the same. That’s why our Personal Support services are flexible and tailored to align with each individual’s unique goals, preferences, and daily routines. While we welcome input from families and others who know the person best, services are ultimately designed to reflect what the person wants for their own life—not simply what others may want for them. This person-first approach respects the individual’s voice, autonomy, and right to self-determination.
As a member of a coordinated care team, The Arc’s staff works closely with schools, employers, and other service providers to ensure consistency and continuity of care. Support intensity may range from Scheduled occasional drop-in visits to more structured, hands-on assistance several times a week, depending on the person's needs.
Areas of support may include:
- Community Connections: Building relationships and accessing local resources to promote inclusion and engagement.
- Independent Living: Support with daily activities such as personal and health care, cooking, grocery shopping, and household management.
- Financial Management: Coaching in budgeting, paying bills or learning how to purchase items, all tailored to the person’s goals for independence.
- Social and Recreational Activities: Encouraging participation in leisure, entertainment, religious, and cultural events that reflect the person’s interests and values.
- Medical Support: Assistance with scheduling and attending medical appointments
- Transportation: Includes transportation to and from activities by trained Direct Support Professionals
Our goal-focused planning ensures that every support provided is meaningful, empowering, and aligned with what matters most to the individual—not just in the moment, but in the broader vision they have for their life.
FAQs of Personal Support Services
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Who provides the support in Personal Support Services, and how are they trained?
Who provides the support in Personal Support Services, and how are they trained?
DSPs (Direct Support Professionals) provide the supports. DSPs are trained employees of The Arc who have undergone:- Background checks/Driving records
- CPR/First Aid certification
- Developmental Disabilities Administration-required trainings as well as additional trainings on person-centered plans, disability awareness, and health & safety
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How do you match the DSP to the person they will support through Personal Support Services?
How do you match the DSP to the person they will support through Personal Support Services?
The Personal Support Services leadership team matches the DSP and the person they will support based on the interests and personalities of both people. In addition, the person who will be supported has a chance to meet with the DSP before final decisions are made about the assignment of a DSP to a person who will be supported. Families may also request to be part of the matching process. -
Is there a maximum number of Personal Support Services hours that a person can receive each week? And can support be provided on any day of the week?
Is there a maximum number of Personal Support Services hours that a person can receive each week? And can support be provided on any day of the week?The Personal Support Services hours are based on a person’s needs and the number of hours approved for Personal Support Services in an individual’s Person-Centered Plan (PCP). The maximum number of Personal Support Services hours is 82 hours per week, but it depends on the person’s schedule. Supports are available during any day of the week and during the evening.
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Can Personal Support Services help a person enroll and succeed in college?
Can Personal Support Services help a person enroll and succeed in college?
Yes. Personal Support Services can help a person apply, enroll, and attend college.
Additional Information
- Person must reside in Montgomery County
- Person must apply to the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration for eligibility and funding approval.
For more information, email personalsupports@thearcmoco.org, or call 301.984.5777 x2934.
