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Center Fostering Independence Worthy Of Community Support

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 13, 2008

When it comes to evaluating programs for the developmentally disabled in Florida, "achieving" is an ideal word for a simple reason: It means a program is thriving, benefiting Floridians who need help the most.

The Center for Independence in Hudson, previously known as the Association for Retarded Citizens/Pasco, recently received this grade as part of the state's accreditation and evaluation process. It's the highest possible score, and the center's staff and clients have every right to celebrate.

The center also is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, a national organization. It's been accredited for 20 years, a great achievement.

Pasco County residents with developmental disabilities and their families and friends are familiar with the Center for Independence. For many, it offers hope for a productive future and fills a void after their public school years end, a time of uncertainty for many clients and their families.

The center offers a variety of services to help those with developmental disabilities achieve a better quality of life, including obtaining a job, managing finances, taking care of one's health, developing social skills and preparing meals - things many of us take for granted.

Independence - whether it's living alone, with a roommate or being monitored by a "living" coach - also is a goal.

People with developmental disabilities face difficult, sometime severe, challenges. They are at the mercy of the state's politicians and government administrators who determine funding and service levels, both of which are under attack.

In the Center for Independence's case, local residents and businesses step in to help by providing money, equipment and other support. They appreciate the value of the center, and all Pasco residents and business leaders should, too.

If anyone doubts the importance of programs and facilities such as the Center for Independence, they should pay a visit to this great community resource - one that, despite the state's scoring method, is highly achieving. The address is 13910 Fivay Road, Suite 8, in Hudson. Center staffers say they love visitors and welcome any donations and support.

They can be reached at (727) 861-5600.

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