Main Content
Community Living has been supporting individuals with developmental disabilities since 1969. During the past 45 years we have seen the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities increase dramatically. In 1969, people with developmental disabilities were mostly supported in Washington State's seven institutions with as many as 40 people per residence hall, with little recognition being given to them as human beings, having rights, abilities, and individual self-worth. The combined total population of the seven state institutions was over 8,000 people. Today most people with developmental disabilities reside in their own homes in their own communities. As has been our Board of Directors and Agency's belief, people with developmental disabilities have the right to live, learn, and work in the community just like everyone else.
Over the years, Community Living has become known as a dynamic, ever-evolving, creative, exciting, and cutting-edge agency. We have been listed as one of the top supportive living programs for people with developmental disabilities in the nation by Syracuse University's Center for Human Policy. Community Living has been sought out for assistance and consultation by providers from Australia, Canada, England, Ireland, Mexico, and New Zealand, as well as providers from the states of Hawaii, New York, and Wisconsin.
In order to maintain our very high and reputable standards our focus is always on how we deliver services, and decisions are based on what is in the best interest of the people to whom we provide services.
Through the combined efforts of our staff, families and community, we are able to help develop skills and abilities to enhance individuals' Health and Safety, Power and Choice, Status and Contribution, Relationships, Inclusion Opportunities, and Competence.
Philosophy
Through teamwork; developing skills and abilities to enhance individuals' Health and Safety, Power and Choice, Status and Contribution, Relationships, Inclusion Opportunities, and Competence.
Testimonials
“My life is pretty good. I enjoy being around my staff, they have helped me to learn to cook and have really been helping me with my life skills. I exercise and go to Special Olympics and I love it”
– Christina has been receiving services from Community Living since 2012.
“As parents of a client in Community Living for more than 30 years we have seen many good things happening. We are very pleased with Darren’s staff and the care given to all of the clients. You manage to keep spirits high and purring along. Keep up the good work and we continue to pray for the organization”
– Dan and Molly are Darren’s parents.
“Community Living is a good place to work because there is teamwork and support available even in the challenges with the work we do. Everything we do effects how the clients feel about themselves and their lives”
– Janis has been employed at Community Living for over 22 years, and is a past CRSA Direct Support Professional Award nominee.