Friends with Disabilities (FwD) - Kalamazoo, Michigan

Friends with Disabilities (FwD): A Dedicated Resource

For individuals and families navigating the complexities of living with a disability, Friends with Disabilities (FwD) stands as a crucial and supportive organization. Located at 151 S Rose St #102, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, and reachable by phone at 2698301334, FwD provides a wide array of services aimed at promoting independence, inclusion, and advocacy for people with disabilities. Their website, friendswithdisabilities.org, serves as a central hub for information and resources. Currently, the organization has 0 reviews on Google My Business and an average opinion of 0/5, reflecting a need for increased visibility and community feedback.

Specialties: This non-profit organization focuses on empowering individuals with disabilities through various programs and services. They operate with a core mission of fostering self-determination and providing practical assistance to those facing challenges related to their disability. Their approach is deeply rooted in respect, dignity, and a commitment to individual choice.

Key Features and Services Offered

FwD offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to meet the diverse needs of its clientele. These include:

• Case Management: They provide personalized case management services to assist individuals in accessing needed resources, navigating complex systems, and developing individualized support plans. This involves assessment of needs, goal setting, and ongoing support throughout the process.
• Assistive Technology Training: Recognizing the transformative potential of assistive technology, FwD offers training and support to help individuals learn how to effectively utilize devices and tools that can enhance their independence and quality of life.
• Disability Rights Advocacy: FwD actively advocates for the rights of people with disabilities, working to remove barriers and promote equal opportunities in areas such as employment, education, and housing.
• Peer Support Groups: They facilitate peer support groups, creating a safe and welcoming environment for individuals with disabilities to connect with others who share similar experiences. These groups offer emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community.
• Independent Living Skills Training: FwD’s programs equip individuals with the skills needed to live independently, including budgeting, cooking, transportation, and personal care.
• Benefits Counseling: Navigating the often-complex world of disability benefits can be overwhelming. FwD offers counseling and assistance to help individuals understand their eligibility for programs such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Accessibility and Location Details

FwD is committed to ensuring accessibility for all. The organization’s facility at 151 S Rose St #102, Kalamazoo, MI 49007 features a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot. This commitment to accessibility reflects their dedication to inclusivity and equal access to services. The location is easily accessible by car and public transportation within Kalamazoo.

Other points of interest: Beyond accessibility features, FwD strives to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all visitors. Their staff is trained to provide compassionate and respectful service, and they are dedicated to building strong relationships with the individuals and families they serve.

Community Engagement and Future Directions

While currently lacking online reviews, FwD is actively working to expand its reach and impact within the Kalamazoo community and beyond. They are exploring new partnerships and initiatives to further enhance their services and address emerging needs. The organization’s leadership is keenly aware of the importance of community feedback and is committed to incorporating suggestions and ideas from individuals with disabilities and their families. Ongoing efforts are focused on increasing awareness of FwD’s services and promoting greater inclusivity for people with disabilities.

Opinions: As highlighted, this company currently has 0 reviews on Google My Business. This presents an opportunity for FwD to actively solicit feedback from those they serve, allowing them to continuously improve their services and demonstrate their commitment to client satisfaction. Encouraging testimonials and reviews would significantly contribute to building a stronger online presence and showcasing the positive impact of their work. The organization understands the value of community voices and is committed to fostering open dialogue and collaboration.

Recommended Information for Prospective Users

Individuals seeking support and resources related to disability should consider contacting Friends with Disabilities (FwD). Here's some key information to keep in mind:

• Contact Information: Phone: 2698301334
• Website: friendswithdisabilities.org
• Address: 151 S Rose St #102, Kalamazoo, MI 49007
• Services Offered: Case Management, Assistive Technology Training, Disability Rights Advocacy, Peer Support Groups, Independent Living Skills Training, Benefits Counseling
• Accessibility: Wheelchair Accessible Entrance and Parking Lot

FwD is a valuable resource for individuals and families seeking support and guidance in navigating the challenges and opportunities associated with living with a disability. Their commitment to empowerment, inclusion, and advocacy makes them a truly impactful organization within the Kalamazoo community.