A Wonderful Resource for Adults and Children Living with Disabilities

by Karole Passmore

The Independent Living Center of Eastern Indiana

Right here in Wayne County, covering seven counties in total, the Independent Living Center provides a myriad of services to children and adults who are living with disabilities.

If you or a loved one has special needs whether they are physical, mental or emotional—learning disabilities, limited mobility, or have advocacy needs, the Independent Living Center can be a godsend.  Located at 1818 West Main Street in Richmond, the Independent Living Center was incorporated in 1998 and opened its doors in 2000.

According to their own information they “serve people of all ages and disabilities and (are) designed to empower individuals with disabilities to live more independently, achieve personal goals, and enjoy control over their own lives.”

Besides the four main areas of Advocacy, Information and Referral, Independent Living Skills Training, and Peer Support, they have also been involved in community awareness and projects creating a more accessible community.

An example of advocacy available, and one which many parents like myself could have used, is advocacy for a child with disabilities of any age within the school system.  All Service Coordinators are RPR certified through In*Source which allows them to advocate for students rights in developing a successful outcome for the student.  Transition planning for students entering into college, the workforce, or other educational transition is another service offered. They can assist with the student case conferences and help develop their IEP along with other support needed for the student’s success.

Other transitioning services include those for adults in areas such as going home from a nursing or rehabilitation facility, hospital, and any institutional setting.  Service coordinators can make home visits to assess the needs of an individual and their family, or you are welcome to schedule an appointment to come in and speak with them.

The only requirement is for an individual to meet the definition of having a disability as stated in the ADA (American’s with Disabilities Act). There is no income base requirement to be eligible for the services at Independent Living Center.

Future services include the Personal Care Attendant Program which will begin later this summer.  Companions will help with household chores, reminders for medication, small meals, rides to Dr. appointments, yard work, etc.  These services will be billable through Medicaid Waivers, private insurance as well as private pay.  The center also has products available which can support those with low mobility such as walkers and canes and low vision technology such as CCTV machines that help with reading, writing checks, and viewing photos, to name just a few, by magnifying the print.

The Independent Living Center also provides many opportunities for community education and resources.  One standing event, the Blind and Low Vision Support Group, is held the fourth Thursday of each month at the Senior Center in Richmond at 1:00 p.m.  It is open to anyone who would like more information or to hear an inspirational speaker on various topics about eye diseases, health of the eyes, and assistive technology available.

Again, if you or a loved one—friend or family member, are feeling overwhelmed and could use some support with a mental or physical disability be sure to pass on this information.  This is a little known resource in Wayne and nearby counties but has brought comfort to many of its residents.

For more information you may contact the Independent Living Center at 939-9226, or visit their website.