the history of
Living Opportunities
History
Members of the ARC of Jackson County created the corporation "Living Opportunities, Inc." in May 1974 to provide residential support services for people with developmental disabilities. As originally conceived, Living Opps would provide training and support in residential and vocational settings to assist people with developmental disabilities achieve their "greatest potential for independent living," provide respite care, advice and aid families with housing, and advocate for further development of housing and residential services for people with developmental disabilities.
With thoughtful planning, Living Opps has been able to extend services to a steadily increasing number of individuals. Today more than 140 staff members support 23 people living in group homes, 60 people living in their own apartments, and 120 people working at jobs in Jackson County.
Living Opps' Timeline:
- 1974: Living Opportunities becomes incorporated in May
- 1975: Living Opportunities, Inc. opens our first home on Beatty Street, in Medford
- 1976: "Supported Living Services" is created utilizing a State Mental Health Division grant to provide semi-independent living support services
- 1978: Edwards Street, Living Opportunities' second home, begins operation
- 1983: Living Opportunities responds to a request by the County Health and Human Services Department to provide employment services in both Medford and Ashland communities
- 1987: Five children with severe mental, physical and medical disabilities move into the barrier free, wheelchair accessible Stone Home, named for long time board member Orville Stone
- 1989: Construction of a duplex on Mae Street is completed and the residents move in
- 1991: The original site of the Medford employment program and administrative office on Valley View Drive is purchased
- 1994: Weaver Home begins operation, supporting individuals with severe medical and physical needs
- 2000: Golf View, a home for adolescents with significant behavioral issues, opens
- 2004: Answering a call by people with disabilities to have access to art, The Studio at Living Opportunities opens
- 2005: Blue Heron, a home in Central Point, opens, replacing the home on Beatty Street
- 2006: Lithia Place Apartments on Beatty Street is leased and Edwards Home closes
- 2007: Auburn Home opens with five residents
