I’m Determined started with a bold idea: empower youth—especially those with disabilities—to take the wheel and steer their own lives. For two decades, we’ve built tools, hosted events, and shared stories that prove self-determination isn’t just a skill—it’s a movement.
But here’s the truth: this journey wouldn’t exist without YOU.
Every student, family member, and educator has helped shape what I’m Determined means today. We also stand on the shoulders of trailblazers who made this work possible from the very beginning—leaders like Lisa Holland, Kim Sheridan, Marianne Moore, Amanda Randall, and John McNaught. Their vision, courage, and steady belief in what young people can do helped carve the path we continue to walk today. Because of them, we are able to build, grow, and imagine what comes next. So as you explore this space, we hope you’ll take a moment to see how far we’ve come—together. Every story, every voice, every small act of determination has helped us reach this milestone. Now, as we set our sights on the next horizon, we invite you to come aboard, explore the stories that shaped us, and share your own as we take off into the next 20 years.
– Keli, Kendal, Jesse
Our story is your story
Hear from the youth, families, and educators who are the foundation of the I’m Determined community.
Youth
Meet our Youth Leaders – young people finding their own voices and leading the way for others.
“I always thought I would be a non-speaking autistic that never controlled his destiny. I am here today to tell you that I am in control. Through my skills gained in I’m Determined, I am a master of my destiny.“
Alex Thurman in his letter to his younger self
IMD Youth Leader
Families
Supportive families help youth succeed. Hear from family members as they share their experiences in their own words.
“As a parent, I was nervous to allow Emma into her IEP meetings since she was found eligible for services in first grade. By 10th grade she sat through the entire meeting. It was in that meeting that I wished we would have involved her in entire meetings longer. She had a voice, she told the staff what was working and not working, she felt like an active member of the team. The pride we saw as she walked out of that meeting can not be put into words.”
Kristyn Mazingo when asked what she wants educators to
know about having students as active participants in their IEPS.
Educators
Educators construct opportunities for youth to practice self-determination skills. Check out their stories.
“Allowing staff the freedom to implement IMD using their vision, versus a prescribed curriculum, was key.”
Erin Kirkland on Winchester’s IMD Running Club
Twenty years. Countless memories. We’d love to hear yours. If you’ve been part of our journey, take a moment to share your story.
A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME AND SPACE
2005 – 2010
Era 1: Planting the Seeds 🌱
I’m Determined began as a small, grassroots effort by educators, families, and youth who believed students should have a voice in their own IEPs. The first tools—the One Pager, Good Day Plan, and Goal Plan—were created to help students express what mattered most to them. Video storytelling quickly became a powerful way to share what was working and inspire others.
2011 – 2015
Era 2: Saying Yes to Growth 🌍
This was a season of connection and expansion. IMD reached across schools and initiatives, saying “yes” to new partnerships, events, and opportunities. Summits grew rapidly, MOVE was born, and video continued to bring stories of determination to educators and families statewide.
“This is What Awesome Looks Like!”
2016 – 2020
Era 3: Building the Framework 🧩
As IMD matured, we began grounding our work in the IMD Elements. We recognized self-determination as a lifelong practice, not just a school-based skill. Youth leadership flourished, and youth voices became integral to shaping how IMD taught, trained, and inspired others.
2021 – 2025
Era 4: Belonging and Interdependence🧵
Emerging from the disruptions of COVID-19, IMD reframed self-determination through the lens of belonging and interdependence. Guided by Self-Determination Theory—Competence, Autonomy, and Relatedness (CAR)—the focus turned toward creating smaller, more relational spaces for growth. Video storytelling evolved into dialogue and reflection, deepening youth voice and connection.
2026 – 2030
Era 5: Envisioning the Future 🔮
Looking ahead, IMD’s work will be shaped by play, curiosity, and human-centered design. Youth voice will continue to lead as we meet people where they are and approach our work with creativity and care. This next era is about exploring what’s possible when we stay curious, connected, and driven by joy in learning together.
From the Archives 📸
A glimpse back to 2014, featuring elementary students stating what self determination means to them.
See yourself featured?
The Future of I’m Determined
I’m Determined has officially become an independent center, and we enter our next era with increased resources, staff, and capacity to extend our work and partnerships. We’re excited to work with you to build what comes next.
Deepen our Community
We are expanding and strengthening our communities by partnering with schools of all sizes and settings—listening to their ideas and discovering new ways to grow self-determination.
Be Youth Driven
We are youth-driven, centering young people as essential partners in our planning, practice, and learning.
Explore What’s Possible
We stay curious and forward-looking, exploring new ideas and innovations that will shape the future of self-determination.
Let’s shape the future of I’m Determined together
If you’ve been involved, thank you.
If you want to get involved, we’d love to have you join us.
