Why We Care
"There are approximately 50 million Americans with disabilities (2000 Census, www.census.gov) that are more often limited by attitudes, environments, or policies than by their disability. "
Crossroads of Western Iowa works to empower individuals with disabilities within our communities to engage in activities that enhance individual development. These activities are valuable for not only to the individuals we serve, but for our communities.
Volunteerism and community service have been avenues through which individuals have been able to better their communities, gain marketable skills, explore interests and develop meaningful social connections and experience the fulfillment of making a difference in the lives of others.
Our Services at Work
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"We are very pleased with the way Crossroads staff has assisted our son, Barry Stewart, in finding the appropriate living arrangements. Barry’s attitude has changed immensely since he has moved into the new apartment. We have the staff at Crossroads to thank for this move for Barry. Barry is very pleased with the apartment and its location. He is enjoying riding his bike around town again, until the weather changes!”
- Don & Carol Stewart, parents of person served
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“The LINKS program at Crossroads of Western Iowa is a hidden treasure. I wish my family had discovered Crossroads day program sooner for my sister Susan. She is making new friends, participating in physical activity, learning skills of daily living, going on community outings and experiencing many enriching activities. I am continually impressed with the staff who works so well with the clients with various disabilities.”
- Julie Wymore, sister of person served
Building Community
Collaboration is the effort of many to build a result in which the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
Crossroads works with community organizations to better the lives of those we serve as well as work to achieve common community goals. We have developed an important partnership with the Micah House, an emergency homeless shelter. Three times a week Crossroads takes a group of individuals with disabilities to clean and disinfect their building. It benefits our clients by not only learning important life skills, but also gives them a true sense of accomplishment and self-worth. In turn, the Micah House benefits from the volunteers and develops appreciation and understanding of the unique abilities of those we serve.
Advocacy
Empowering our Clients to Have a Voice.
The President, Governor, Legislators, County Board of Supervisors, and local Funders are making choices each and every day that can have an impact on people with disabilities. Their decisions have an impact on funding and rules that affect a person’s ability to live independently in their own community home as well as the supports they need to get a job and to work for a paycheck. These are important everyday freedoms most people in America take for granted. But, for persons with disabilities, these freedoms aren’t always realized quite so easily.
We encourage and empower individuals to advocate for what they believe in, and we support and amplify their efforts by advocating on their behalf.
Kim Coffelt