Elevating Families, Advocating for Disabled People
Ascend IF navigates you through California’s Self Determination Program (SDP), helping you meet your service needs and achieve your independent goals.
We partner with:
What does Ascend IF do?
We are your Advocate
As Independent Facilitators (IF), we bridge the process from being a Regional Center client to a Self Determination client. We help you help yourself and your loved ones. Together, we identify your unique service needs, create an actionable budget plan that works for you, and we onboard you to a Financial Management Service (FMS).
How we help
We are here to answer any questions you may have
Rated 4.9/5
"Finally, someone who understands what families like ours go through."
Our Services
How are we different
1:1 Expert Navigator
Provider & Services Search
Expert Insight
Individual Budget & Spending Plan
SDP Enrollment & Management
Annual SDP Renewal
Pricing
Services are 100% funded by your Regional Center
Free
You’ll never receive a bill. Our services are 100% funded through your child’s eligibility with your Regional Center so you can focus on getting the right support, not the cost.
$0
Review your previous budget and service needs
Create a unique and individual spending plan
Integrate your unique goals and objectives into your budget
Connect you to a FMS and seamlessly guide your onboarding process
Apply for SDP without the administrative burden
How it works
Your Pathway to Help
Together we transition your loved one into SDP, create your independent and unique budget, and start the onboarding process with a Financial Management System (FMS).
01
Tell us about your child
Start by sharing your child’s personal story, strengths, and challenges. The more we understand, the better we can support you with insights and guidance.
Get personalized help
Receive tailored advice from experts who specialize in educational planning, behavioral support, and developmental needs. We meet you where you are and walk alongside you every step of the way.
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We bridge the SDP process
From paperwork to placement, we simplify the complicated process. Our team helps you navigate school systems, evaluations, and services ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
Yearly Review and Support
As your child grows, their needs evolve. We offer ongoing reviews and support to help you adapt plans, track progress, and advocate effectively year after year.
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Impact
We’re here to Advocate
Who we are
Why is Ascend IF the right Independent Facilitator
Meet Denise Terenzio
Denise holds a BS in Kinesiology with honors in child development. She has decades of professional experience championing underserved communities nationwide. Her work has given voice to the voiceless achieving national recognition and actionable results. Denise sits on the board of Stellify, a non profit organization that helps adult autistic individuals find community and skill training. Her mission is to listen to your needs, connect, expand, advocate and inspire you into a self determined life.
Rated 4.9/5
"This service changed everything. We felt seen and supported."
FAQ
Answers to your most common questions
What exactly do you help with?
My child hasn’t been diagnosed with anything. Can I still get help?
How do I know if my child needs this kind of support?
What’s included in the personalized consultancy?
Do you attend school meetings or advocate for families?
How long does the process take?
Do you work with children of all ages?
Is this a one-time service or ongoing?