Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does a facilitator do?
A: The facilitation process is different for each person, but in general you will work with your facilitator to do three important things:
First, your independent facilitator will spend time getting to know you, and the people who are important to you. They understand that this is a personal process, and so it is important that you are comfortable with your facilitator. This step helps your facilitator to plan your time together in a way that feels best to you.
Second, your independent facilitator will gather information with and about you: your interests, strengths, experiences and priorities. Your independent facilitator will support you as you make decisions about your goals, and the steps that you can take to build the life you want in your community.
Third, your independent facilitator will help you to put your plan into action. You and your facilitator will connect with the people, places, and resources that you need to reach your goals. Because goals can change, we stay involved over time. You are in charge, and you decide what you would like to work on with your facilitator.
Q: How long does the facilitation process take?
A: Your facilitator will stay involved for as long as it is useful to you. They are there to support you over time, when and how you want.
Q: Can I pick my facilitator?
A: It is important that you find a facilitator that you get along with, can talk easily to, and enjoy spending time with. You can review the local community facilitators profiles which gives you an opportunity to find a facilitator based on your preferences, interests, where you live, and when you are available. The great thing about this process is you can interview a couple different people to see who might be the best fit.
Q: Where will I meet with my facilitator?
A: Your facilitator can meet you where and when you choose. That might be in your home, at a park, in an office space, or a coffee shop. Most local independent facilitators are available during the daytime, evenings, and weekends.
Q: What training do the independent facilitators listed on Facilitation Wellington Dufferin website have?
A: The facilitators listed on our local Facilitation Wellington Dufferin webpage have many different backgrounds. They may have experience in the fields of developmental disability, social justice, recreation, community development, or social work. In order to be listed on our webpage, these facilitators must have once been employees of our organization and have taken part in our facilitator mentoring initiative. They also must continue to be active in our community of practice.
Q: How much does facilitation cost?
A: Working with a facilitator can be paid for by applying for support through Developmental Services Ontario, or by using your Passport funding up to $2500 a year. Facilitation can also be paid for by private funds. Please, contact each independent facilitator for more information as individual rates may also vary.
Q: Why is it important for a facilitator to be ‘independent’, and what does ‘independent’ mean?
A: By saying ‘independent’ we mean that the local independent facilitators listed on our website are not representing an agency or organization that offers group programs or makes funding decisions. This allows the independent facilitator to have a more personalized approach, and to stay focused on connecting people with their communities. You can learn more here, but reading The "I" in IPF (Independent Planning and Facilitation).