Resource Connections of Oregon (RCO) provides community services for adults (customers) with Developmental Disabilities. We are an Oregon non-profit corporation.
RCO currently provides services to customers in Linn, Marion, and Yamhill Counties. Our customers are referred to us through the Developmental Disabilities Services Department in each county. Referrals are received monthly as we grow to our Brokerage contracted enrollment capacity of seven hundred individuals.
RCO receives funds designated under contract with the State of Oregon and disperses these funds under the direction of our customers. These funds come from both state and federal money with the goal of increasing inclusion, independence and quality of life for people with disabilities. Personal Agents assist customers to identify needs and purchase supports within a menu of service categories. There are restrictions on the types of supports that can be purchased. All supports that are provided to customers are based upon the customer' s disability related needs.
In working with our customers we see many true needs that can not be met due to the restrictions placed this funding. It has become our goal to help out in these areas of need with donated items, services or “Emergency Flex Funds” when ever possible. Examples of this are: steel-toed boots required for work, mattresses, used computers, Braille printers and other similar items used to support an individual’s independent lifestyle.
We help support our customer’s by recruiting volunteers to help with things such as reading tutors, and computer support. Through an ongoing grant, we have a resource to supply our customers with used computers to help get them connected to their community.