Program Membership
Current members can log in here.
Through Program Membership, we provide resources and support to state agencies administering or seeking to administer participant-directed programs. Membership is now open to new state agencies.
Membership benefits include:
- Access to online member forums and our members-only website
- Peer-to-peer learning opportunities
- A subscription to our e-newsletter
- Contribute to the NRCPDS’ research agenda and public policy priorities
For More Information
If you would like to learn more about Program Membership for state agencies, please contact Membership Specialist Molly Hurt Morris at membership@participantdirection.org or 617-552-1663.
You may also access the following resources:
Program Membership: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How will the NRCPDS help my state agency understand our challenges if you have never worked with us before?
A: The NRCPDS has more than a decade of experience making participant direction a reality across the nation. The Center builds on the lessons learned from the successful Cash & Counseling program, which has been implemented in 15 states.
Q: What types of benefits will my agency get with NRCPDS Membership?
A: Benefits include access to the member area of the NRCPDS website, an e-newsletter, member forums, and more. See the full benefits list for a more detailed overview.
Q: What is posted in the members-only area on the website and how can I gain access?
A: Many tools and resources are available in the member section of the website. See our benefits list for a detailed overview.
Member agency representatives will be given a username and password to access the member section upon approval of membership. If you’re considering membership and would like a preview of the member area of the website, please contact us.
Q: Do NRCPDS members ever meet in person?
A: Yes, the NRCPDS hosts an event for members at relevant national conferences at least once per year. If your agency is considering membership, we’d be happy for you to join us at our next in-person event in order to learn more. Please contact us to inquire about our next gathering.
Q: Who can become a member?
A: State agencies that administer or seek to administer participant-directed programs are invited to become Program Members at the NRCPDS.
If you are a participant and direct your own services, you may join the National Participant Network. If you represent a Financial Management Services agency, you are eligible for our FMS Membership option.
If you are still interested in membership and do not fit in one of these categories, please contact us. We are interested to learn about your needs and determine how we can help.
Q: How can my agency apply for membership?
A: In order to apply, please complete our application and submit via mail or e-mail to the following:
Molly Hurt Morris, Membership Specialist
NRCPDS, Boston College
314 Hammond Street
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
membership@participantdirection.org
Q: What is the value of being a member?
A: Successful participant-directed programs demand careful planning and strategy. The NRCPDS supports agencies to solve challenges and ongoing issues as they implement participant-directed programs, thereby creating effective, efficiently run programs. Membership will help you:
- Stay on top of national and state policy and program developments for participant direction
- Get practical assistance to build and improve your programs
- Connect with peers
Q: Why do you charge membership dues?
A: We recognize that state programs are currently operating during difficult budget times and therefore we strive to maintain our dues at a low cost. Membership dues only serve to cover the cost of providing benefits.
We also provide many free resources on our website including access to the larger NRCPDS library, videos on participant direction, and an online program map that depicts the availability of participant direction across the country.
Q: Who should serve as the two representatives for our agency’s membership?
A: Staff members at any level may serve as an agency representative for NRCPDS program membership. We recommend that member agencies select at least one leadership level staff person to serve as a representative.
Agency representatives will serve as the primary contact with the NRCPDS, gain access to our members-only area of the website, and receive our quarterly e-newsletter. Member Forums are always open to agency representatives, but other agency staff may also be invited depending on the topic.
Q: When does my membership begin?
A: Membership and access to benefits begins immediately upon approval of your agency’s application. Please allow two weeks for the review of member applications. Annual dues payment must be received within 90 days of membership approval.
Q: In my state, we have more than one state level department interested in membership. Can we join together?
A: All distinctly operating state departments or agencies should apply for their own membership. For instance, if your department has a separate operating budget from another department seeking membership you will apply separately. For special circumstances, please contact us to inquire about options for your state.
Q: I have more questions about membership, who can I contact?
A: Please contact our Membership Specialist, Molly Hurt Morris, with your questions. Molly may be reached at 617-552-1663 or membership@participantdirection.org.