Program areas at BI
Education & Employment Programs:This fiscal year, Becoming Independent served over 250 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our Education programs and another 150 in Employment programs, all of whom share a common goal of living both meaningful and fulfilling lives through exploration and development in the areas of Education and Employment. Our programs are created with the understanding that all people have the right to choose their own paths and the right to be valued as active community members. Services include building skills in the areas of health, wellness, nutrition, socialization, communication, arts, music, self-advocacy, and professional growth and exploration.
Transportation:Agency vehicles, many of which are equipped with wheelchair lifts, provide rides to individuals to and from their homes, jobs, BI program sites, volunteer sites and community events all over Sonoma and surrounding counties. In March of 2020, the global pandemic brought transportation to a halt; services have evolved over the last 2 years from 1:1 and deliveries of PPE, to a slow but steady return to normal capacity while still ensuring appropriate health protocols while transporting clients throughout the community. Prior to the pandemic we were transporting over 600 individuals annually for both our program components, community and emergency services needs. When a vehicle was needed to relocate an individual after a natural disaster (flood/fire/earthquake) BI was always eager to step in and make that happen.
Living Services:Our Living Services teams offer two support options for those who choose to live independently. Independent Living Services (ILS), serving over 100 individuals annually, are centered around developing skills to achieve the level of independence of one's choosing. Objectives are designed based on an assessment of current skills including self-advocacy, health and safety, personal and social skills, mobility, accessing community resources, and financial management. Supported Living Services (SLS), with upwards of 75 individuals, provide the support required for a person to live their most independent life, in their own home, on their own terms. Services are flexible and person-centered, offering customized assistance that meet the individual's level of need.