CICS in the Real World:

On January 3, 2017, Access, Inc. opened a transitional living center (TLC) in Iowa Falls. That day, Michael Smith moved in. Nine days later, Andy^* became a tenant. By the end of January, the TLC in Iowa Falls was at capacity.

Jenny Backer, executive director of Access, Inc., has been connected to CICS for a while now. When CICS sent out a request for proposal for transitional living centers in November 2016, Jenny and Access, Inc. responded with their plan for a TLC in Iowa Falls. The TLC would serve as a space for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and/or mental illness to work toward defined goals with the help of trained professional staff.

Access, Inc. and their TLC in Iowa Falls won the proposal, which meant CICS provided funding for the center. The money went toward startup costs, securing rent for the home that would be turned into the TLC, furnishing the home, purchasing a vehicle to get clients to and from appointments and any needs within the community.

“Funding from CICS was instrumental in getting the Iowa Falls TLC ready to open in January 2017,” Jenny said.

Most people learn about the TLC from friends, family, their current providers, public health clinics and area hospitals. Word of mouth has been a great help in getting clients the transitional living help they need.

Michael and Andy found out about the TLC from different situations — one from his case worker and the other from family members — and both have already seen growth since moving in. When asked if they’d be a voice for the TLC in the community, both agreed that they’d tell others in situations similar to their own about the residence, services available and how great it’s been for them. Michael and Andy will move out of the TLC in March, opening a space for two more individuals to move in and work with the help of trained professional staff.

Help doesn’t stop once residents move out of the TLC. As long as clients are committed to their goals, their plan transfers with them to their next residence. Michael will move into a home that is part of Access, Inc.’s plan. He’s incredibly grateful for Access and how they have helped him get back on his feet. Andy has found an apartment in the area and will continue the individualized plan that was developed for him during the time at the TLC. Both men have developed a plan, set goals and are forging a path toward success.