What can an ADVOCATE do for you?

ASSISTANCE:
An advocate will assist you to live independently and successfully in the community in your own home. You will receive specific supportive services geared around your own special needs.

EDUCATION:
Your Advocate is there for you, by your side helping you to live the independent and fulfilling life you want and deserve. Advocates will assist you at the level you need to enjoy your independence. You are a part of the entire process.

VOICE:
In our program, your voice will be heard! An advocate will listen to your needs and concerns and help you with decisions that you have to make. These decisions may include where you want to live or how you want to budget/spend your money. Your advocate will talk with you about your needs and desires and develop a plan that best serves you.

OPPORTUNITY:
This is your opportunity to get the services you have always wanted and needed. This is your chance to live independently in the community, get help with budgeting or grocery shopping, meet new friends, go on fun outings, and grow as a person.

COMMUNITY:
Being a part of the community is important to everyone. In our program, not only will we help you to live on your own but help you to connect with other's who also live independently. Our program has over 30 people who often get together to do fun things in the community.

ACTIVITIES:
Activities are a major part of our program. We have various activities and trips planned throughout each month. We believe that it is important to create opportunities where people can connect with each other and have fun!

TRANSPORTATION:
We understand the importance of transportation. Advocates will work with you on accessing various modes of transportation, which include the Lane Transit System, Ride Source, and taxis. Advocates will also transport individuals to various places, such as the doctor's office, bank, grocery store, or community activities, when other modes of transportation are not available or convenient.

ENCOURAGEMENT:
In our program, you will be encouraged to be the best that you can be! An advocate will help you try new things, meet your goals, and be your own person.

SERVICE:
Alvord-Taylor, Inc. the longest running agency serving people with developmental disabilities in the Eugene/Springfield area. Our Independent Living Program is also the largest in the community. We offer a wide variety of services to our clients. Among the more important services we provide are helping our clients maintain their entitlements, such as Section 8, Medicare and Medicaid benefits, and food stamps. All the advocates are knowledgeable about these programs and have many years of experience filling out the necessary paperwork to maintain benefits. A variety of other services designed to meet each individual's needs are also available.