Causes: Developmentally Disabled Centers, Disabilities, Health, Homeless & Housing, Human Services, Sports

Mission: To advocate for the right of individuals

Target demographics: citizens with Developmental Disabilities and their families participate in their communities

Geographic areas served: the greater Rutland area

Programs: 1.We are "representative payee" for approximately 40 clients. We assist clients in managing within their budget limitations, allowing individuals to have food, shelter, clothing, and expense money throughout the month. 2.We assist individuals and family members in filling out annual accounting forms for probate court. Families dont have to worry about year-end form. 3.We contact case managers, social workers, guardian specialists regarding issues of concern both to and about clients. This is done to keep the client out of crisis. 4.We make arrangements for social security and ssi benefits for new clients. This allows the client to receive funds that would otherwise be withheld due to the lack of a payee.

5.We arrange dances, dinners and an annual christmas party for a total of six (6) events held in the community each year. This helps with social development and the sense of belonging. 6.We promote self-advocacy for both adult individuals and families by acting as mentor and secretary for the self-advocates becoming empowered-rutland and by supporting the rutland family support network. In these gatherings individuals are able to gain a sense of accomplishment as they set and reach goals, go to