Transparency
By Tre Keys, FNRC Public Information Officer
REDDING, Calif. — The Self-Determination Program at Far Northern Regional Center (FNRC) has transformed Angela’s life, allowing her to regain independence and thrive after the challenges of isolation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Angela Roy identifies as 27-year-old Chinese American and was adopted in China by her mother, Lisa Roy, when she was 13 months old. Lisa had already adopted her older sister, Emily, in 1995, and raised the girls as a single mom while teaching elementary school. “I was pretty much in heaven raising the girls. Yes, there were tricky times, but we’re all good. Emily is an RN at Enloe Hospital. I am very proud of my girls,” reflects Lisa.
Angela, who previously faced barriers to accessing support services during the pandemic, found hope in the self-determination program, which provides participants with the flexibility to tailor services to their individual needs. Her mother, Lisa, reflected on the initial challenges, saying, “The isolation really broke a lot of Angela’s spirit. Her mental health was difficult because everything was cut off.”
Through self-determination, Angela was able to select her own support network, including Reese and Kate, who became integral to her journey. “Reese was closer to Angela’s age, and they really just started enjoying their time together. I just watched Angela start coming back and being happy,” Lisa said.
Kate, another member of Angela’s support team, accompanies her to school and helps her stay organized. “Kate has been helping me out. It’s nice to have somebody go with me and drive me to school,” Angela shared.
Angela’s academic achievements, supported by her team, include a strong grade point average and recognition for her art. “I got 98 in both art classes,” she said proudly, adding that she plans to graduate from college in spring 2026 with her Associates Degree.
The program also enables Angela to live independently. She uses services like Uber to get to appointments, participates in fitness sessions with her personal trainer, and engages in artistic and social activities. “Fitness is so important for your physical and mental health,” Lisa said, emphasizing the program’s role in supporting Angela’s gym membership and training.
Unexpected benefits emerged from the program, as Reese, Kate, and others became like family. Angela reflected on these relationships, saying, “They’ve gotten so close to us that we have big dinners together every week” Lisa said.
When asked what advice they would give to families considering self-determination, Angela said, “It’s a good program. You’ll get good support.” Lisa encouraged hesitant families to “talk to someone who’s in it and hear about their personal experience.”
When Angela and her family first considered the Self-Determination Program, they were unsure of what to expect. However, the support and encouragement from dedicated individuals like Melissa Whelchel, Marlene McCollum, Morgan Curtiz (FNRC Representatives) and Tina Harshman (SDP Independent Facilitator through Jenny’s Helpers) made all the difference. As Angela’s mom reflected, “We kind of didn’t really know what we were getting into, but the encouragement and such from Melissa, Marlene and Morgan, you know, they just held my hand through it.” With this support, the family was able to navigate the program’s complexities and ultimately achieve success.
Angela’s story exemplifies how self-determination fosters independence, personal growth, and meaningful connections. Families interested in the program are encouraged to explore its potential to transform lives.