When Julie talks about her son Eric’s future, one phrase stands out: “Our dream team.” For Eric and his family, that dream team includes his Care Manager, Darice, and his self-direction broker who help ensure Eric’s services, goals, and opportunities align with his needs and dreams.
Eric is a ninth grader in Yorktown High School’s life skills program (SALE). He’s active, curious, and deeply involved in his community. Through self-direction, Eric participates in social skills groups, private swimming lessons, sports programs, Ninja-style training, cooking classes, and more.
Julie shares that without the guidance of Darice and the oversight of their broker, navigating services would feel overwhelming.
Darice helps ensure Eric’s services align with OPWDD and New York State guidelines. She keeps the family informed about available supports and helps them adjust services as Eric grows. From school discussions to extracurricular planning, Darice remains a consistent partner.
But like many families, the journey wasn’t always seamless. Julie openly shares that their first care management match wasn’t the right fit, particularly when it came to understanding self-direction. With advocacy and collaboration, the case was reassigned, and the right partnership was formed. That shift made all the difference.
Today, Eric is thriving. He talks proudly about Legoland, his favorite rides, and his busy schedule. He’s building independence, confidence, and life skills that will support him long-term.
Julie reflects: “If I lost my dream team, I would be lost. I couldn’t do this alone.”
For Darice, watching Eric grow is the most rewarding part of the work.
At out sister company, LIFEPlan CCO, we support individuals and families in coordinating the services that help make goals achievable-big or small. Eric’s story is a reminder that when the right team comes together, meaningful progress happens.