Through its Individual Service and Support Advocates (ISSA), CSO conducts face-to-face contacts (at least two times a year) with individuals who receive (disability-related) services from the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS).

Responsibilities of ISSA include:

• Developing the annual personal plan;
• Assisting individuals with linkage and applications for Waiver and non-Waiver services;
• Monitoring individuals’ progress toward identified outcomes;
• Determining whether provided services are appropriate and satisfactory;
• Ensuring that the individuals’ rights are respected and that health, safety, interests, and welfare are sustained.

CSO’s Individual Service and Support Advocates (ISSAs) travel to rehabilitation and residential settings where individuals live and work to confirm each individual’s well-being and that services are being provided according to their personal plans. They communicate with service providers, families/guardians and state government administrators, regarding the status and needs of the individual who is being served.

The purpose of Individual Service and Support Advocacy is to provide an independent, comprehensive and objective “voice” as well as a resource for the individuals we serve. It assures quality, “choice” and services appropriate to individual’s needs.