For NJ Support Coordinators: What to Ask Friendly Connections About Services
Updated: Oct 8
Support coordinators often need quick, practical information before deciding whether a provider may be a good fit for someone’s plan. At Friendly Connections, we serve all 21 New Jersey counties and work with individuals, families, and support coordinators to discuss what is authorized, what the person wants to work on, and what is realistically available in the community.
Start with the service and the person’s goals
The most useful first conversation is specific. Tell us which service is being considered, what goals are most important, where the person lives, the preferred schedule, transportation needs, and any practical concerns that could affect staffing or matching.
Ask about current county coverage and staffing
Friendly Connections serves statewide, but current staffing can vary by county, town, service, schedule, and the needs of the person receiving support. We would rather give a realistic answer about availability than make a general promise that every opening can start immediately.
Discuss what community-based support should actually look like
Community-based services should connect to real goals and real life. Depending on the service and plan, that may involve community participation, relationships, everyday skills, transportation, appointments, recreation, employment goals, communication, or greater independence. Tell us what matters to the person so the discussion stays centered on the individual rather than a generic program description.
Ask whether a trusted friend or family member can be hired
In some situations, Friendly Connections can hire a qualifying friend or family member as a Direct Support Professional. That can preserve an existing relationship while Friendly Connections handles the provider-agency responsibilities for employment, training, documentation, and supervision.
Information that helps us give a useful answer
County and town
Service being considered
Preferred days, times, and weekly hours
Important goals, routines, and community activities
Transportation or scheduling considerations
Whether the person already has a friend or family member who may be a good DSP candidate
Keep families and the planning team informed
Good communication matters once a service starts too. Friendly Connections expects staff to document communications and keep the appropriate members of the support team informed when there are meaningful schedule, staffing, or service issues.
Support coordinators can contact Friendly Connections to discuss current availability and whether our services may fit a specific person’s plan. You can also review our statewide programs at friendlyconnections.net/services.
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