Building a Personal Support Network can be challenging, particularly for people who experience isolation or barriers to connection. That’s where PLAN’s expertise comes in.
Our Network Development Team collaborates with families and individuals to create and nurture networks that grow over time, adapting to evolving priorities and goals.
A Personalized Approach
Every network begins with understanding the person at its center. We focus on:
- Exploring Gifts and Interests: Identifying what makes the person unique—their talents, passions, and routines.
- Understanding Current Relationships: Mapping out existing connections with family, friends, and community members.
- Focusing on Safety and Well-being: Considering health and safety needs as part of the process.
How We Build Networks
Our process is collaborative, flexible, and rooted in relationships:
- Setting Priorities: Together, we develop a six-month workplan based on the person’s goals and needs. These workplans are updated regularly to ensure progress. Families also receive monthly updates to stay informed.
- Deepening Existing Relationships: We look for opportunities to strengthen current connections, fostering deeper and more meaningful bonds.
- Expanding the Network: We carefully identify new opportunities in the community where shared interests and values can lead to authentic connections. Whether it’s joining local groups, hosting a potluck, or introducing compatible individuals, we focus on building relationships that are genuine and reciprocal.
- Ongoing Adaptation: As personal and family priorities shift, the network evolves. Over time, new relationships develop, and the network grows, creating a robust foundation of care and connection.
Building Community Through Action
A few times a year, we bring network members together for formal gatherings. These meetings provide an opportunity to:
- Plan and take action on the person’s goals and dreams.
- Learn as a group and share perspectives.
- Update priorities and refine the network’s focus.
A Relationship-Based Approach
At PLAN, we take an asset-based approach to building networks. Instead of relying on a volunteer bank, we focus on the individual’s gifts and interests to inspire authentic relationships. This approach strengthens connections through:
- Joining community groups aligned with shared passions.
- Organizing social events like potluck suppers.
- Facilitating introductions between people who share common values and interests.
Building a network takes time, care, and intentional effort. With PLAN’s guidance, these connections grow into lasting relationships that provide support, belonging, and purpose for a lifetime.