Moving to IndependentChoices: The Implementation of the Cash and Counseling Demonstration in Arkansas

This report describes the design and implementation of Arkansas' model of Cash and Counseling — IndependentChoices — and draws lessons from the state's experience. The report is based primarily on in-person interviews conducted with Arkansas state officials, IndependentChoices' program staff, staff of agencies providing counseling and fiscal services under IndependentChoices, staff of agencies providing traditional personal assistance services in Arkansas, and staff of advocate organizations. In this summary, the authors briefly describe the design and implementation of IndependentChoices, then draw lessons for future Cash and Counseling programs in Arkansas and other states. [143 PDF pages]