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North Star Planning Services

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Support Planning for you

At North Star Planning Services, our mission is to guide individuals and families through person-centered support planning that empowers choice, prompts independence, and enhances quality of life.

We are dedicated to helping every client navigate their journey with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

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What is CDCS?

Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS) is a Minnesota program that gives people more choice and control over the services they receive. Instead of using only traditional agency-based services, individuals and families can design supports that truly fit their lives, values, and goals.

Through CDCS, participants create their own support plan and budget, choosing who provides services, what supports are needed, and how funds are used to promote independence and community living.

CDCS can be used by people on several Minnesota waivers, including:

  • Alternative Care (AC)
  • Brain Injury (BI) Waiver
  • Community Access for Disability Inclusion (CADI) Waiver
  • Community Alternative Care (CAC) Waiver
  • Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver
  • Elderly Waiver (EW)
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What is a Support Planner?

A Support Planner (also known as a Support Planning Professional) helps individuals and families navigate the CDCS process.

At North Star Planning Services, we guide you through each step from developing your person-centered support plan to making sure your budget meets state and county guidelines.

Your Support Planner can:

  • Explain CDCS program options and requirements
  • Help design a support plan that reflects your goals, strengths, and needs
  • Assist with writing your Community Support Plan within set budget
  • Communicate with your lead agency or case manager
  • Offer ongoing guidance as your needs change

Why choose North Star?

At North Star Planning Services, we believe that every person’s path is unique. Our role is to help you design plans that reflect your goals, your values, and your vision for a meaningful life.

Here's what sets us apart:

Person-Centered Approach

We start by listening. Every plan we create is built around your strengths, preferences, and goals, not a one-size-fits-all template.

Expertise You Can Trust

Our team understands the CDCS process inside and out. We stay current on Minnesota’s CDCS policies and requirements so your plan and budget are accurate, compliant, and approved smoothly.

Clear Guidance, Every Step of the Way

We know that CDCS can feel overwhelming at first. We break down the process into manageable steps, offering clarity and support from start to finish.

Compassion and Connection

We see beyond paperwork. We take time to get to know you, your family, and what truly matters, so your plan reflects not just needs, but dreams.

Commitment to Independence

Our mission is to empower you to direct your own support with confidence. Whether you’re new to CDCS or adjusting an existing plan, we’ll walk beside you every step of the way.


Our Services

We help you create a CDCS support plan that reflects your goals, strengths, and lifestyle designed around your needs.

Life changes, and so should your plan. We review and update your support plan to keep it aligned with your current needs and goals.

We act as a bridge between you, your case manager, and your providers to ensure your plan is clear, compliant, and works smoothly.

We provide guidance for participants and families to understand CDCS, navigate services confidently, and make empowered decisions.

Questions or challenges along the way? We’re here to provide advice, troubleshoot issues, and support you throughout your CDCS journey.

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