At Living Opportunities, we are in the business of providing support to people with developmental disabilities in all facets of their lives. We help people identify their wants, needs and desires, then design individual supports, customized to ensure that the person will be safe, healthy and happy as he or she pursues their dreams. Everything begins with the person figuring out the answer to one question—“What do I want?” Each person’s answer is unique…
TARA
Tara is a local girl, having grown up in the Rogue Valley with three sisters and four brothers. Even though her mother, Catherine, has moved to Portland to complete her Ph.D., her family stays in touch, visiting frequently, calling and texting often. Foster Provider Serena Cook describes Tara as “easy to be around. She has a great sense of humor and is so polite. She remembers everyone and always asks how they are doing. She has learned so much!” When Tara finished school in 2008, she knew she loved to shop and go to movies, but wasn’t sure where she wanted to go in life. Living Opportunities Employment Services Manager Lisa Groble completed an assessment, and the outcome was not surprising—Tara wanted to be helpful to others, to feel appreciated and to get a paycheck! Valley Immediate Care hired her in July of 2008 as a clerical assistant, where she scans benefit statements, folds them and helps out at fairs. With the support of our job coaches, she is working towards independence in data entry. CEO Brent Kell says “Tara is a wonderful addition to our staff, always smiling, always willing to work and to help. We should all be as efficient at our jobs”. Tara also feels this is a good match. “I love working here more than anything. This is the best job I have ever had. I am so thankful to be here.”
