I was a provider for 18 years and during my time of providing Service Facilitation Services i hired the best team that did NOT have the college degree. Including myself in this mix of talent, I found more hard working, knowledgeable and qualified individuals. Some were moms of children with whom they had struggled to navigate the waiver services until they became a professional at understanding the system and how to guide others. I found an invaluable team who would spend time beyond their paycheck to extend help for consumers on the waiver. Please do not get me wrong, a degree is wonderful and takes hard work too. However, it simply cannot replace life experiences. With that comes wisdom and we don’t get that from any book - instead we get that from the struggles of life. Many consumers are struggling to navigate the waivers. They need that advocate who can step up and give them the confidence they need to direct the care they need to make living their best life possible. I ask that you fully consider removing this portion and allowing non degree (but still with qualified experience) to apply for Service Facilitators Positions and Companies. I know personally I am going to be one of the first in line to start a New Company if this is allowed. I thank you for your time. Stephanie Estes ( formally Family Links LLC ).