Alvord-Taylor Independent Living Services has been assisting people with developmental disabilities to live quality lives in their communities since 1974. We serve over 60 people with disabilities in the Eugene-Springfield area. Our main areas of focus are facilitating independence and personal opportunity. We believe in genuine community involvement for our clients and increasing community awareness of our client’s abilities.
Alvord-Taylor depends on individual donor support as well as government contracts to support our programs. We rely on community support to ensure access to activities and events are available to all of our clients, not just those who can afford it. We are a 501 (c)(3) non-profit and all donations, both money and in-kind, are tax deductible.
Alvord-Taylor began in June of 1969 when a group of concerned persons, special education teachers, vocational counselors, parents and community representatives met to address the problem of preparing young adults with developmental disabilities to live in the community as independently as possible. They quickly recognized the need for a sheltered living arrangement where training could be provided. With the help of the Lane Association for Retarded Citizens, a transitional boarding home for adults was established.
With the financial backing of John Alvord, the first group home was opened in October of 1970. Through the 80’s and 90’s, additional services were developed to provide for the growing needs of our clients.
We match clients who live in their own homes and apartments with advocates who provide support for each individual client’s need. Some examples include teaching and assisting with:
Finances — budgeting, paying bills, shopping, saving
Medical — appointments, taking medications, maintaining healthcare insurance
Housing — finding and maintaining housing
Benefits — receiving and maintaining State and Federal entitlements
Socializing — arranging and participating in community activities like swimming, biking, coastal trips, movies, etc.
Each Alvord-Taylor residential group home provides 24-hour staffing to assist clients with all parts of their daily routines, such as personal care, getting to/from work, meals, health, safety, and life skills training. Our dedicated staff use a variety of skills, humor and positive supports to assist our clients. We are proud to have excellent staff who have been here for 3, 5, 8, 11, even 23 years!
Our ATE program provides an environment for clients to be more involved in their community, through volunteering, skill building and income producing alternative to employment. We participate in local venues such as the Springfield Market and Eugene Saturday Markey, where clients make and sell hand-made items.