OUR HISTORY
The Maryland Council of Support Brokers, formerly known as the Maryland Support Broker Cafe, had its origins in the summer of 2022, when it was founded by Mrs. Kimberlie Manns. From its inception, the organization has gone through various transitions, evolving to meet the changing needs of the community it serves.
​
During one pivotal moment in its journey, Mrs. Manns (VP) joined forces with elected Cafe President Alarice Vidale de Palacios. Together, they embarked on a collaborative effort to re-shape the Cafe's agenda resulting in the formation of the MCD-SB. Their belief is one firmly rooted in the values of inclusion, accessibility, and diversity awareness. Their shared commitment was not limited to just the waiver participants but extended to all individuals within the community.
​
Along with being Principals of the MDC-SB, Mrs. Manns and Mrs. Vidale de Palacios, infused their unique perspectives and experiences as mothers who participate in DDA's self directed services to the table. They work diligently to create a vision that embraced the vision of equity and empowerment for all. Their collective efforts aim to ensure that every person, regardless of their background or circumstances, had access to the support and resources they needed to thrive.
With this renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to making a positive impact, the Maryland Council of Support Brokers is embarking on a journey to transform the lives of individuals in the community. Their dedication to inclusion, accessibility, and diversity awareness underscored every action they took, as they sought to build a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
We believe all vulnerable individuals can embrace who they are,
can define their future, and can change the world.
Our Mission
The mission of the Maryland Council of Support Brokers is clear and unwavering: to guarantee that every participant in the state waiver program has access to professional support brokers who adhere to standardized best practices. Through a combination of education and advocacy, support brokers are dedicated to fulfilling their principal goal, which is to align themselves closely with the participant and operate according to their direction.
In essence, the Council's mission revolves around three fundamental pillars:
-
Ensuring Access: The Council is committed to making sure that every individual enrolled in the state waiver program has equitable access to qualified support brokers. This accessibility ensures that the necessary support and assistance are within reach for those who require it.
-
Standardized Best Practices: The Council places a strong emphasis on maintaining and promoting best practices within the profession of support brokering. By adhering to standardized, evidence-based approaches, support brokers can provide consistent, high-quality services that truly benefit their participants.
-
Participant-Centered Approach: Above all, the Council recognizes that the participant is at the center of their mission. Support brokers are encouraged to align themselves closely with the participant's goals, needs, and preferences. They are advocates who work in partnership with the individual, respecting their autonomy and decisions.
Through these guiding principles, the Maryland Council of Support Brokers aims to create a system where participants can rely on support brokers who not only possess the necessary skills and knowledge but also prioritize the individual's well-being and self-determination. This mission reflects a commitment to providing exceptional support services that empower individuals to live their lives to the fullest while ensuring their voices are heard and respected.
Our Vision
"Our vision is to create a community where the role of a support broker is not just understood but deeply appreciated. The Maryland Council of Support Brokers is committed to fostering this comprehensive understanding of our profession.
In pursuit of this vision, we aspire to be unwavering advocates for the cause, tirelessly championing for a better understanding of the rules that govern our profession, both within and beyond our borders. We recognize that clarity in these regulations is fundamental to the quality of service we provide.
Furthermore, we are dedicated to being educators and mentors within the professional community. Through proactive mentoring, targeted education, and leading by example, we aim to elevate the standard of support brokerage, nurturing a community that constantly strives for excellence