Alliance for Independence, Inc.
What started as a small group of concerned parents and friends who formed the Polk County Association for Retarded Children, March 15, 1954 has grown to "one of the largest providers of person-centered supports to people with disabilities in Polk County and has been a pioneer in providing specialized training to developmentally disabled adults.
For over 50 years, Alliance for Independence has provided a wide array of services to hundreds of developmentally disabled adults from Polk County, FL. Alliance for Independence was established by parents and friends who believed in the abilities of individuals with disabilities and the importance of them becoming an integral part of their community.
Beginning as a day activity program, Alliance for Independence is now a highly recognized multi-service community association with a well-defined mission that promotes independence and confidence. While enhancing self advocacy, achievements of life-long goals and dreams in a least restrictive environment are contributing factors to successful outcomes.
Many of the people we serve are already experiencing their objectives such as living in their own apartments. In addition, over 200 of our former clients have reached their dream of having a community job and collectively have reduced their dependence on government support by over $1,000,000 per year.
Alliance for Independence curriculums and materials are being modeled across the District and State by other community associations. Of the more than 120 developmentally disabled adults currently being served daily, many are already experiencing their dream every day. As these individuals dream of employment, apartments, relationships, community involvement and a more independent way of life, it is more important than ever to be able to continue providing the education, experience and exposure for making good choices towards the vision of new horizons.
