Nov 24, 2023 By Melissa Gibson 3 min read

When a person is living with or acquires a disability, it can be a challenge to find a different way of navigating the world.

Voices for Independence is there to help.

The Washington-based nonprofit has been affiliated with Washington County’s Transitional Paths to Independent Living (TRPIL) since late 2019.

“No one loses in this,” said Steve Johnson, director of marketing. “Voices has been providing all the same services TRPIL has for the past 30 years, plus others, and we’re bringing them to Washington County.”

Their mission is focused on giving each person the tools they need to become more independent by providing programming that includes courses in art, cooking, living skills and more.

In addition, consumers can access in-home care, accessibility for independent living and an adaptable gym to encourage physical fitness.

“We want to support everyone living independently with tools that we’re able to supplement,” Johnson said. “Many of our consumers want to transition from a nursing home to their own residence and they may need a ramp at the front door or wider doorways in the home. We have the resources to make that happen.”

Many people who acquire a disability must learn to work through the life change, and educate themselves – often quickly – about their diagnosis. Talking to others helps, Johnson said, so Voices offers socialization opportunities.

“This is vital because we need an outlet to meet others who are going through something similar and a way to connect with peers. We also have a peer counseling program in which another person with a physical disability can share skills they have learned along the way,” he noted.

For example, Johnson said one consumer who was born without sight had the goal of being able to independently navigate to the mailboxes in his apartment complex and retrieve his mail each day.

Others are frustrated with the public transportation system; how to access it, how it works and how to prepare.

Whatever the need, Voices hopes to provide the solution.

“One of our new programs is employment services,” Johnson said. “We look at what your interests are, resume building, the application process and helping you find employment.”

They also offer assistive technology. New products can help with independence, whether it be a device that holds a phone or drink, or using a program like Google Home.

The organization encourages self-advocacy among its clients so they can address the challenges they face with as much independence as possible. Despite protective laws and some advancements, Johnson said, there’s still a lot to be done.

“Often, we see people with a disability who encounter barriers and resign themselves to simply accept the way things are, but we’re here to help change that,” Johnson said. “We want to be the number one disability resource center in the area and if we don’t know the answer, we’ll get it for you.”

Voices for Independence will celebrate its grand opening on Dec. 8 at 42 W. Maiden St. in Washington.

The nonprofit is in need of donations and support from individuals and business sponsorships. They also need volunteers, willing to help with fundraising events and social events, hosted by Voices.

Visit https://www.vficil.org/ to donate or to learn more.