Advocacy

Self advocacy and community advocacy involve the removal of architectural, attitudinal and communication barriers to independent living and community accessibility. Advocacy may involve community volunteering and organizing, public speaking, educating elected and public officials and networking with other advocacy organizations.

Peer Support

Peer Supporters are people with disabilities who share similar experiences with others with disabilities. Trained peer supporters assist in bringing about change by sharing experiences in a broad array of situations. They do not, however, provide professional, medical, financial or legal advice.financial or legal advice.

Information and Referral

Our goal is to be the southeast region’s disability resource center. We offer a wide range of information on issues involving people with disabilities. Topics include Independent Living issues, disability rights, legislation on local, state and federal levels and services available from other organizations.

Independent Living Skills Training

Independent Living Skills Training involves teaching skills needed for an individual to become independent and to live and function more fully in their community. Past topics have included: rights and advocacy, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Fair Housing Act, budget planning, nutrition, crime/fire prevention, recreation, assistive technology, personal assistant management, training, self-esteem, adjustment to disability, relationships, sexuality and wellness. We provide both group and individualized training.

Assistive Devices / Technology

Consumers may apply for grant assistance that provides assistive technology and assistive devices that aid in independent living. A wide variety of tools and equipment are available to those with visual, auditory and/or physical impairments.

Circles of Support

We promote the formation of circles of support for people with disabilities. Circles of support are networks that form around individuals with disabilities and are made up of family members, friends, co-workers and professionals. Circles enable people with disabilities to reach dreams which cannot be achieved through traditional systems.

Equipment Loan Closet

We maintain a limited and varying supply of donated assistive equipment available for loan.
A larger variety of equipment is available on a permanent basis for a small fee through the STAR Network/Re-use Program.

LIFE is working with the STAR network to help facilitate equipment reutilization in Southeast GA. STAR has several outreach centers throughout the state where an individual with a disability can access used equipment and assistive technology.

The used items have been cleaned and sanitized through a Washing Mechanism known as the HubScrub. Items redistributed are typically donated items being gifted for availability to persons who can utilize the item(s). Individuals can access the equipment or devices they need for a modest contribution. Individuals from the community can bring their equipment (non electric/no battery) to the nearest outreach center to be cleaned/sanitized and returned to the outreach center at the next scheduled delivery.

Home Modifications

Funding through special grants allows consumers to apply for assistance with modifications around their home that serve to increase accessibility such as wheelchair ramps, door widening and installation of grab bars.

Resource Library

Our on-site resource library houses books, magazines, brochures and videos on a wide range of disability issues such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, Fair Housing Act, disability rights and more.

Nursing Home Transition

The goal of this program is to provide people with disabilities the opportunity to pursue community based living as a viable alternative to nursing home residency. We can assist those who wish to return to their own home, move in with family members or live independently.

Alternative Formats For Everyone

Can ALL of your customers read your menu? Business card? Brochure? Alternative Formats for Everyone offers a variety of opportunities for businesses to provide their customers with materials in accessible formats such as braille, large print and audio. Compliance with ADA regulations is beneficial because access for everyone is the key to attracting new customers and retaining those you already serve. What’s more, compliance is surprisingly affordable, and greatly appreciated by your customers with visual impairments. No job is too large or too small. Contact us today for more information and a price quote. (912) 920-2414, (912) 920-2419 (TTY) or click here to send an email request.