How many services does Reach for Independence offer?

Reach for Independence (RFI) offers various services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or autism. These services include Day Supports, Community Networking, Community Living and Supports, Respite, Supported Employment, and Residential (AFL). Visit our programs (link underlined copy to Programs page) and residential services (link underlined copy to Residential Services page) pages to learn more about each area of support.

Who is eligible to receive services?

Adults who are 18 or older and have a diagnosis of an intellectual disability are eligible for Day Support Services. RFI is primarily funded through the NC Innovations Waiver. Anyone who is on the waiver may be eligible for services depending on certain criteria. Contact us at 828-654-0901 for further information.

How much does it cost?

Reach for Independence has three funding sources: NC Innovations Waiver, State Funding, and Private Pay. Reach is set up to directly communicate with Medicaid and State funding sources, taking the responsibility off the individuals served. Each individual with NC Innovations or State Funding will have an authorized amount of services each week in which caregivers will not need to worry about any financial burdens. Private Pay is an option for individuals who are not currently on the NC Innovations Waiver and/or eligible for State Funds. These rates vary and are negotiated prior to admission.

What is the Innovations Waiver?

The North Carolina Innovations Waiver is a means of funding services and supports for people with intellectual and other related developmental disabilities that are at risk for institutional care in an Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF-IID). If you or your supported individual are not on the NC Innovations Waiver, contact Vaya Health to see eligibility requirements and get added to the waitlist. Vaya Health’s phone number is 828-225-2785.

Check out this link (underlined copy links to https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/nc-innovations-waiver) for more information regarding Innovations.

What are the eligibility requirements for the Innovations Waiver?

To be eligible for N.C. Innovations, an individual must provide documentation of an intellectual or developmental disability that impairs functioning (other than mental illness). Individuals must also be at risk of placement in a developmental center. Source: Vayahealth.com

Is there a waiting list?

There is currently a waiting list for all services except for Residential services. Contact us (underlined copy links to Contact Us page) to find out further information regarding the waitlist status.

Can I receive more than one service?

If you are on the Innovations Waiver, you may receive as many services as you are eligible for. These services depend on what is determined in your annual Individual Support Plan.

What are the requirements to work for Reach?

Each employee must have a high school diploma or GED and go through all of the required training provided by Reach for Independence. Experience is not required. We are always accepting applications. Apply now (underlined copy links to online application location) to submit an application online.

My son/daughter is in high school – can they attend the day program during the summer?

Yes, if your son or daughter is on the Innovations Waiver, they may be eligible for Day Supports during the summer.

Does the day program provide transportation?

Transportation is available to and from the Day Program. However, there is currently a waiting list.

Does the day program provide meals?

Currently the Day Program does not provide meals. Everyone is required to bring a packed lunch.