DRA operates as a Center for Independent Living serving Jefferson County residents who meet the criteria of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), regardless of age or type of disability.  Our primary focus is concentrated on assisting each individual in maintaining an independent lifestyle while allowing them to reside in their own home.  As a Center for Independent Living DRA, receives no local tax support, rather all funds are the result of state and private grants, administrative fees and private donations.  Many of the programs offered by the organization such as wheelchair ramps, home modifications and medical equipment loan services are funded solely by corporate or private donations                    

FOUR CORE SERVICES

All Centers for Independent Living provide four core services that act as anchors for all other services provided.  Please click on Services to see what more we can offer you.                                              

Information and Referral

Individuals and organizations often find they have no where to turn when disability related questions arise.  DRA operates a Information and Referral database to provide information to individuals and their families.  This database contains a wide variety of general and community resource information.  If we do no have the information you are looking for, our policy is to locate it for you.

 Peer Consultation

The purpose of Peer Consultation is to match up individuals with similar disabilities.  This service assists in individuals adapting to life with a disability or transitioning through different life stages.  Peer Consultation is an excellent way for individuals with disabilities to develop an internal support system.

    Independent Living Skills Training

Independent Living Skills Training includes almost anything an individual may need to maintain or increase their level of personal independence.  DRA provides an Independent Living Specialist (ILS) to assist each person in the development of an Independent Living Plan.  Together the individual and ILS set goals and develop action steps in order for the individual to achieve their goals.  This process provides the opportunity for individuals to learn the skills and develop the necessary resources to maximize personal independence.

    Individual and Systems Advocacy

DRA's work in the community seeks to make a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities by removing barriers.  Individual Advocacy efforts focus on accessibility to public services, education and benefit issues.  System Advocacy centers on efforts to enhance and support local, state and federal legislation on a variety of disability related issues.  These efforts attempt to reinforce and support public policies that provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to live an independent lifestyle.

          DRA has helped our Consumer's get back on Tax credits As of April 15, 2008

Circuit Breaker Total = $250,000

Stimulus Refunds total= $60,000