When you think of community, what comes to mind? For many of us, it’s the familiar faces we see every day, the friends we catch up with over coffee, or the neighbors we wave to on our morning walks. A strong community brings people together, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose. But there’s a whole population that often remains on the sidelines, unseen by many. At IEI, we’re dedicated to bringing these individuals into the heart of our community through compassion, support, and active engagement.
Opening Hearts to a New Experience
Joining IEI has been a transformative experience for many of our team members. Before becoming involved, they might have had limited interactions with the populations we serve—individuals who, for various reasons, might otherwise be isolated or overlooked.
One staff member shared, “I worked with autistic children in schools, but this is a different level of care. The people we serve are just so sweet, and getting to know them has been incredibly rewarding.”
At IEI, we operate 11 homes in Eugene, Oregon, where we provide comprehensive care to 28 individuals. Our services range from 24-hour residential care to day support, covering all aspects of daily living—financial management, medical care, food, transportation, and more. Everything you do for yourself or your loved ones, we do for the people we support.
Our team of about 110 dedicated professionals includes nurses, direct support professionals, and behavior support experts, all committed to enhancing the quality of life for those in our care.
Active Community Engagement (ACE): Bringing the World to Them
One of the key initiatives at IEI is our Active Community Engagement (ACE) program. ACE was created to ensure that the individuals we serve stay actively involved in community life, even when challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic make physical interaction difficult. During the pandemic, we pivoted to virtual day support programs, offering activities like mad science experiments, art projects, and cooking shows. These activities kept our clients engaged and social, even when they couldn’t leave their homes.
For some of the individuals we support, being homebound is a permanent reality. For them, our role is even more critical—we bring the community to them. This connection is vital, much like the role programs like Meals on Wheels play for seniors. As one staff member noted, “Sometimes, our visits are the only connection these individuals have to the outside world.”
But our commitment goes beyond meeting basic needs. At IEI, we strive to enrich the lives of those we serve by helping them achieve personal goals, enjoy vacations, explore new hobbies, and participate in community activities. Our direct support professionals are dedicated to providing opportunities that allow everyone in our care to lead fulfilling, meaningful lives.
The Importance of Community and Volunteering
Frank Grady, a board member at IEI, shared his story of becoming involved with the organization. Like many, his involvement was coincidental—his wife’s best friend from school recruited him to join the board. Despite his long career in Lane County, Frank wasn’t initially aware of IEI’s work. However, since becoming involved, he’s seen firsthand the impact that community engagement can have.
Frank, who moved to Oregon in 1974 and has lived in Eugene since 1980, reflects on the joy of being part of a close-knit community. “In just going around the room today, I realize that within just a degree or two, I have a personal connection with nearly everyone here,” he says. This sense of connection is what makes community involvement so special.
Since retiring 12 years ago, Frank has discovered one of the hidden gems of retirement—the ability to volunteer. “Volunteering has become a hidden gem in my life, offering fulfillment and a way to stay engaged with the community and its economy,” he shares. For those with the time and interest, Frank encourages considering a role with IEI, especially as a board member. The organization is in great need of passionate individuals who want to make a difference.
Join Us at IEI
If you’re looking for a way to give back to your community and make a meaningful impact, consider getting involved with IEI. Whether through volunteering, serving on our board, or simply spreading the word about our work, your contribution can help us continue to provide the support and care that so many individuals rely on.
At IEI, we believe in the power of community, and we invite you to join us in making a difference.