pink cherry blossoms and green leaves on a tree branch

Supports Broker Newsletter February 2025

Issue 5 | Spring 2025

The Power of Music and Community

We are thrilled to highlight Jacob Herring, 31, who has made remarkable strides in his journey towards greater independence and community involvement. Over the past several years, Jake has worked towards significant milestones, including becoming a professional drummer using the stage name "Jake the Snake."

By utilizing self-direction and tailoring his supports to fit his life and choices, Jake has mastered living an Everyday Life with support from his family, drum teacher, staff, Support Broker, friends, countless natural supports, and fan base. With a passion for drumming, he has actively pursued open mic nights, booking band gigs with several bands, volunteering his time to play for the veterans at the VA Medical Center in Coatesville, and playing dances for Compass Point Travel. In addition to being interviewed by Channel 6 ABC News and highlighted in different newspapers, Jake was also invited to play at the Juke Joint Blues Festival in Mississippi which has over 10,000 people attend annually.

All these opportunities have allowed him to enhance his skills and build meaningful connections wherever he goes. His dedication to music and drumming serves as an inspiration to us all. We are proud to support Jake as he continues to pursue his dreams and make valuable contributions to our community.

This article was prepared by Erin Bove, Caring Connections, and Jonathan Fulton, Institute on Disabilities at Temple University.

Incident Management

Incident Management is something that no one wants to consider or feel they must anticipate for. However, it is always important to be aware and up-to-speed on the proper procedures for an Incident Management situation.

Access the Incident Management Bulletin course at MyODP

Medicaid Access Rule

After much anticipation, The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the final Access Rule: Ensuring Access to Medicaid Services rule. This is designed to strengthen Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) for individuals to continue to flourish in living a self-directed life at home and in their community.

More information on the Access Rule

Performance Based-Contracting (PBC)

As Performance Based-Contracting continues to phase in the year 2025, so can the confusion.

For guidance, read ODPANN 24-103: Performance-Based Contracting: Residential Pay-for-Performance Details.

Upcoming Events

Supports Brokering Monthly Network Meetings

  • March 19th – 4 p.m. to 5 pm.
  • April 16th – 4 p.m. to 5 pm.
  • May 21st – 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Supports Broker Recertification

Register for recertification at MyODP

  • March 11th – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • May 6th – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Photo credit: CC0 licensed photo by correliebre from the WordPress Photo Directory

For more information, please contact


215-204-1356