I’m determined to succeed.

Find tools and support to help you set goals, be heard, and reach for the stars.
Let's Go, Youth!

Building Support for Self-Determination

There are many ways you can play a role in a young person’s journey to self-determination. Whether you’re at school, at home, at work, or in the community, I’m Determined provides tools for every aspect of life, at any age.

Tools for Educators

Find ways to support your students, adapt lesson plans, and connect with the self-determination community.
Resources for Educators
Illustration of three individuals sitting at a table, one in a wheelchair, working on laptops.

Tools for Families

Learn about how you can play a vital role in your loved one’s lives by providing support that works for them.
Resources for Families
Illustration of 3 individuals, one male with a red hat and green shirt, walking behind an adult female with a red shirt, navigating with a power wheelchair, and a girl with a green dress, holding a red balloon.

Explore More Tools

Poster: Understand the Elements of I’m Determined

Understand the skills, abilities, and beliefs that contribute to self-determination.
Read more about Poster: Understand the Elements of I’m Determined
Elements of I'm Determined - grid of 9 colorful blocks with elements listed inside with definitions. The 9 elements and definitions are: Choice Making - The skill of selecting a path forward between two known options. Decision Making - The skill of selecting a path forward based on various solutions that have each been thoughtfully considered. Problem Solving - The skill of finding solutions to difficult or complex issues. Goal Setting & Attainment - The ability to develop a goal, plan for implementation, and measure success. Self-Regulation - The ability to monitor and control one's own behaviors, actions, and skills in various situations. Self-Advocacy - The skills necessary to speak up and/or defend a cause or a person. Internal Locus of Control - The belief that one has control over the outcomes that are important to his or her own life. Self-Efficacy - Belief in one's own ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish specific tasks. Self-Awareness - Basic understanding of one's own strengths, needs, and abilities.

Use the Goal Plan to Set and Attain Goals

The Goal Plan is a simple tool to help youth set and attain goals. Download a fillable PDF and instructions on how to use the Goal Plan.
Read more about Use the Goal Plan to Set and Attain Goals
4 column worksheet with headings My Goal (in yellow), Outcomes (in teal), Next Steps (in red), and People Who Can Support (in purple)

Student Rubric for IEP Participation

This rubric helps students determine their current level of participation in their IEP process, and plan for the next level.
Read more about Student Rubric for IEP Participation
Thumbnail image of the Student Rubric for IEP Participation

Meet a Youth Leader

I’m Determined State Youth Leaders are a diverse, energetic, creative, and passionate group of young adults.
Get to know us

I’m Determined is what gave me a voice and taught me whatever I want to do, I have to be self-determined and advocate for myself. Advocating for myself has helped me advocate for other people.

– Chloe, Youth Leader, Regions 2 & 3
Headshot of youth leader, Chloe, female with short, brown hair, smiling

I’ve had a life-changing experience with I’m Determined. The learning tools prepared me to be life-ready in college and the workforce. I strongly recommend to start using these tools early to give students a sense of autonomy in their education. The lifelong friendships that I have developed here at I’m Determined will also be cherished for a lifetime!

– Jonathan, Youth Leader, Regions 1 & 8
Headshot of youth leader, Jonathan, male with black hair and glasses, smiling and wearing a purple and yellow striped polo shirt

Determination is not a skill that can be mastered, it’s an aspect of life that we have to strive for everyday; within everything we do.

– Traleya, Youth Leader, Regions 2 & 3
Headshot of youth leader, Traleya, female with dark brown hair with highlights, wearing a striped shirt and jean jacket, sitting on a bench outdoors

What’s New

June 10, 2025

2025 Youth & Family Summit

The Youth & Family Summit is a three-day event held each June where youth with disabilities from across the Commonwealth meet to network and discuss important issues together.
Learn more and apply Go to Page

Empowering youth with skills and opportunities to succeed in school, personal lives, and beyond.

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