To provide a point of access of information to various resources, groups, activities, and other organizations that can increase their quality of life.
HISTORY: Kari has had a vision for several years to help bridge the gap for people who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities by bringing all available resources, for their specific needs, under the umbrella of one point of contact. Kari has worked in the field of developmental disabilities in the Portland Metro area for the past six years, as well as in other areas for a cumulati
ve of eight years of hands on experience. There are many resources available, but often finding these resources can be overwhelming. It is time and energy intensive to access these resources and families in need or crisis may not have that luxury. This idea came to Kari during a college internship in Southern California. Kari was assigned the project of creating a hard copy resource guide for families whose children had been diagnosed with a disability or suffered a tragic accident. For families in this situation it is both overwhelming and discouraging to figure out what resources are available to support them. Once Kari completed her internship, it was clear she had a passion for people with disabilities. Kari moved back to Oregon in 2006 and began working in a group home setting in order to gain further experience in the field of disabilities. Kari was hired as a lead direct support professional and moved into management two years after. While managing two group homes, Kari experienced for herself how difficult it was to find resources that are needed as a professional providing services in a group home, respite care, and community inclusion setting. It was further confirmation that if this was a challenge for her, as a professional, it must be even more so for the families that we served as well. Kari has gained a wealth of knowledge in the few years she has worked in this field. In the fall of 2012 she became an independent contractor supporting individuals in the community, so that she could develop these ideas and take more tangible steps in achieving her dream. Connecting-Oregon will serve those who need our service the most, and will enable and empower those with developmental disabilities an opportunity to live a more healthy and fruitful life.
