Community & Employment Services

Community Access Services

Launched in the fall of 1998, Community Access Services helps to  build those essential community relationships for people with disabilities.

Historically, people with disabilities have had limited opportunities to become participating members of their communities.  By working with each individual one-on-one, consumers will become involved in civic, social, recreational, educational, and/or volunteer interests of their choice. The goal is to give an alternative to facility-based training programs, group outings, and activities that are exclusive of the non-disabled population. Consumers participate in the  program 5-20 hours per month. Community Access Service will assist individuals to connect with their community in a way that is both meaningful and unique.

Admission to Community Access Service is open to individuals with disabilities who reside in supported group living facilities or meet the eligibility criteria of the Medicaid Waiver or Title XX funding. The program serves eligible persons of any age living in Marion, Hancock, Johnson, or Shelby Counties.

Community Living Services

The Semi-Independent Living (SILP) and Supported Living Program are under the umbrella of Community Living Services. They are two very distinctive programs. SILP services provide assistance to individuals between 18 and 67 years of age who require 4-6 hours per week of individual training and case coordination. Consumers receive training in safety, nutrition, banking, budgeting, and other daily living skills.

The Supported Living Program provides assistance to individuals with greater staff support needs to live in their own homes. Many persons utilizing this service have physical challenges and require accessible housing.  It also provides support to children living in their family or foster homes. Through this program, consumers receive personal attendant care for 4-8 hours daily to assist with getting up in the morning, getting dressed for their day, and meal preparation. Assistance is also provided again in the evening to prepare meals, bathe, and get ready for bed. Additionally, 5-25 hours per week of training is provided to assist with accessing community services and developing  skills for greater self sufficiency. 

Community Living Services use a person-centered planning approach to develop the Individual Service Plan. This plan is reviewed and revised at least annually. 

Employment Services

IRL's Employment Services Department serves individuals who are referred by Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors or Medicaid Waiver Case Mangers. Individuals with a variety of physical, emotional, and/or cognitive disabilities receive assistance with finding and retaining employment in community settings. Services include: vocational interests and skills assessment; job search and job development assistance; job placement, training, and coaching.  Long-term supports and gradual fading from the work site are provided by follow-along services through a contract with the State of Indiana or through Medicaid Waiver funding.

Our Employment Services Brochure is available for download in acrobat format,  please click on the link below.