HOPE Agency launched PAWSABILITIES, a doggie daycare, to hire youth and individuals with special needs, providing a therapeutic environment and volunteer opportunities. Best stated by Amy Madden, Co-Founder, “Our hope is that the doggie daycare will amplify [individual] interactions and increase the likelihood of youth going into human services, or if they don’t, they will be allies and champions for special needs in their own career pathways.” 

LOQW has navigated Medicaid re-determinations and spin-down issues post-COVID through the dedicated efforts of their benefits specialist, Dolores Wilson. Over the past year, Dolores has helped families understand and navigate complex, costly systems, including securing a significant refunds and reduced monthly premiums. Additionally, she facilitated a young man's independence by obtaining a modified vehicle through Vocational Rehabilitation and the Social Security PASS Plan, demonstrating the profound impact of effective benefits planning on individuals' lives.

Transformation

Via of the Lehigh Valley, Inc. successfully transitioned from using a 14(c) certificate to paying individuals minimum wage over a decade-long process, culminating in July 2024. This transformation included restructuring their Prevocational Services to align with best practices, increasing meaningful community engagement, and introducing new services. By June 2023, all paid work in their Prevocational Training Service was at minimum wage, resulting in significant income increases for participants and the elimination of piece-rate jobs.