Which practice aligns with the core competency about sharing information and resources with the consumer?

• A. Provide resources for local organizations aligned with consumer interests.
• B. Tell them the best program without consultation.
• C. Require the consumer to join a program before discussing options.
• D. Only share one resource and not follow up.

Answer: (A)

Sharing information and resources with the consumer means presenting options in an understandable, respectful way that supports their goals and choices, and doing so in a collaborative, non-coercive manner. Providing resources for local organizations aligned with what the consumer cares about helps them see practical, relevant options in their community, which promotes empowerment, informed decision-making, and ongoing engagement. This approach respects the consumer’s preferences, offers appropriate choices, and invites questions, while following up to gauge usefulness and address barriers.

The other approaches fall short because they push a single program without input, impose participation, or limit options and follow-up, which can undermine autonomy, relevance, and the consumer’s ability to make an informed, self-directed choice.