(Airdate: May 28, 2024) Maryanne interviews Kim Rafferty, chair of the IDD (Intellectual and Developmental Disability Advisory Board). Public resources to handle such disabilities are extremely limited. For example, Jefferson County has only two adult family homes, each with the capacity of only eight residents. Kim has a son with intellectual disabilities. Her profession as a nurse helped guide her to find the best possible resources for him. Interestingly, identifying and beginning treatment before the age of three can be crucial for life-long development. Close to 40% of those who enter programs before the age of three end up catching up with their peers by the time first grade starts. Progress has been slow in creating programs for adults with disabilities. But some major companies – such as Safeway, Quimper Mercantile and QFC – have stepped up to the plate and now have job opportunities in place. Kim and her colleagues are looking to expand more resources & opportunities for those struggling.
