Abundant Rain Christian Fellowship — Community Services Project

Statewide Need
Information from health, education and social service agencies shows that people who are black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, Asian or Native American are often less likely to receive the services and supports needed to be fully included in their communities. Frequently, available services and supports are not culturally competent. Support groups can help people receive culturally competent services and supports so that they can be fully included in their community. These groups can also provide feedback on how to create change so that services can be provided in ways that are a good fit with the cultural values, characteristics and customs of the people they serve.

Project Goal
Assist individuals with developmental disabilities (DD) live independently and encourage inclusion in their communities. Work with individuals and families to locate and connect them to resources that meet their specific needs. Enable community connections through forums, support groups and interactive events.

Project Summary
Abundant Rain Christian fellowship and the Elgin Community Group developed a partnership that allowed them to hold meetings to support individuals with DD and their families connect with fellow community members and discuss issues, concerns, programs, needs and other resources. The group worked alongside the Austin Harmony Project who presented on how art and music can provide rich experiences for individuals with DD.

The project brought valuable resources directly to the community via a resource fair. Attendees were able to visit with vendors to discuss programs, needs, concerns and best practices for a variety of situations.