Types of Service
Requests:
General. Reading mail, attending DB social events and council meetings,
shopping, doctor appointments, legislative meetings, etc. Each consumer
is allowed 2-24 hours per month, depending on their needs and tier placement.
Training Requirements: SSPs receive
comprehensive 18-hour mentoring from both an experienced SSP mentor and
DeafBlind consumer mentors. Program Coordination: Elli Streifer is the DeafBlind Programs
Coordinator. She oversees the Support Service Provider, Orientation and
Mobility, and Community Intervener programs. Transportation: Transportation is provided as part of the SSP’s
duties.
SSP Pay Rate: SSPs first have their
base rate determined based on their number of years of experience (0-3: $44,
4-6: $48, 7+: $55). Then, $1 is added to this base rate based on the SSP's
skills/experience, including ASL fluency or a relevant college degree, up
to $6. Once the SSP's base rate has been established, there is a $7.50
night/weekend differential and a $15 holiday differential.
Other: Automotive
liability insurance (minimum $1,000,000) is mandatory if SSPs plan to drive
consumers. The state provided a waiver
allowing SSP vendors to have a $300k/$500K minimum policy. SSPs are also required to hold professional
liability insurance (minimum $1,000,000).