Funding Priorities: Navigating, Connecting and Innovating for Inclusive Communities
Our mission is to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to lead lives that are fully lived, included and meaningful. Through our funding priorities, we are not just navigating the challenges faced by the I/DD community but also connecting them with essential resources and innovating to break barriers and foster inclusion. Let’s explore how each of our five key funding priorities for 2025 help shape a future where every individual with I/DD can thrive.
Transportation
Transportation is more than just a means of getting from one place to another; it’s about navigating the path to independence and community integration. We understand that equitable access to transportation services is crucial for individuals with I/DD to fully participate in their communities. Our funding for transportation services has the potential to provide accessible vehicles, hire drivers and develop volunteer driver programs. The goal is for these initiatives to remove barriers and ensure that transportation is not an obstacle to community involvement.
We also work to support services and workshops that create their own transportation solutions, allowing individuals to access activities and resources. If bus and transportation training programs were funded, it would help individuals with I/DD navigate public transportation systems independently. By providing these resources, we are committed to making sure that everyone has the opportunity to live a self-determined life.
Inclusion in Community
True inclusion means more than just being present; it’s about connecting individuals with opportunities and relationships that enrich their lives. We prioritize funding for programs that foster meaningful connections and community integration. Creative programs that build natural support and friendships outside of paid services are essential for creating genuine, lasting relationships. Community mapping programs help individuals find their place within the community, ensuring they can engage in activities and networks where they feel a sense of belonging. Befriending programs, which link individuals with disabilities to community members based on shared interests, enhance social connections and build inclusive networks. Through the variety of programs, we strive to ensure every individual feels included and supported in their community.
Crisis Prevention and Support
Addressing crises with compassion and efficiency is crucial for supporting individuals with I/DD. We want to be able to offer comprehensive support during these challenging times by funding training programs for direct support staff to equip them with the skills needed to handle crises effectively. Mentor positions are also essential to provide on-the-job guidance and enhance the capabilities of direct care staff.
Our funding hopes to support creative programs that are designed to reduce hospital admissions by providing effective crisis prevention and intervention strategies. Comprehensive support programs focus on understanding and resolving individuals’ needs and communication, ensuring that appropriate responses are tailored to each person’s situation.
Transitions
Transition support is essential for helping individuals navigate life’s changes, whether they are transitioning to adulthood, aging or experiencing other significant life events. We aim to fund programs that prepare young adults for adulthood with a focus on inclusion and self-determination. These initiatives ensure that individuals are equipped to make informed choices and transition successfully into adult life.
We also support creative programs for individuals who are aging or experiencing dementia, providing the necessary resources to maintain engagement and quality of life. Programs that offer information and support for maintaining or increasing independence help individuals live in their preferred living situations, aligning with their personal goals and aspirations.
Safe, Equitable Housing
Access to safe and inclusive housing is fundamental for creating supportive communities. Eitas is committed to innovating solutions that ensure equitable housing options for individuals with I/DD. We look into funding partnerships with housing contractors to develop accessible housing and support coalitions with landlords and housing authorities to create affordable living spaces that accept various forms of payment, including housing vouchers.
Additionally, we support programs that assist individuals in finding safe and suitable housing, ensuring that they have the resources and guidance needed to secure homes that support their well-being and independence. By focusing on these initiatives, we are dedicated to shaping a future where everyone has access to inclusive and supportive living environments.
Shaping the Future with Innovation and Connection
Our 2025 funding priorities reflect our commitment to navigating, connecting and innovating for the benefit of individuals with I/DD. By focusing on transportation, community inclusion, crisis prevention, transition support and equitable housing, we are working to drive meaningful change.
Each funding priority underscores our dedication to dignity, inclusion and empowerment, shaping a future where every individual with I/DD can thrive and contribute to their community. We are listeners, learners and innovators, fiercely committed to building a world where real lives are fully lived.