Living with a disability should never mean going without support. Fortunately, across our region, a network of dedicated organizations is making a difference. Their shared goal is to provide disability services and inclusive care that empower adults with disabilities to live independently, find meaningful work, and access care that respects their dignity.

Disability services and inclusive care refer to a wide range of support systems. These are designed to help people with disabilities lead full, self-directed lives. Services may include job training, mobility support, health advocacy, and more.

Importantly, inclusive care goes beyond basic assistance. It emphasizes accessibility, equity, and respect. As a result, people of all abilities can participate fully in their communities.

For many adults with disabilities, independence is more than a goal—it’s a fundamental right. Independent living builds confidence, strengthens self-advocacy, and encourages full participation in society.

That’s why Access Independence, a partner agency of Our Health, plays such a vital role. This Center for Independent Living is based in Winchester. It offers skills training, peer mentoring, and transition support. Each program is tailored to help individuals succeed on their own terms.

In other words, they help people take charge of their lives, one step at a time.

Work can be a powerful force for independence. With the right support, employment becomes a path to dignity, confidence, and community.

That’s where NW Works, another trusted Our Health partner, comes in. They provide employment services for people with disabilities. From resume coaching to inclusive job placements, they open doors to opportunity. Moreover, their on-the-job training programs make employment more accessible and successful.

Inclusive hiring isn’t just good for employees—it’s good for businesses and the entire community. After all, a diverse workforce brings broader perspectives and deeper innovation.

Our Health champions trusted local organizations that support independent living, employment, and health needs. From mobility equipment to health education, these partnerships help remove barriers and promote independence.

F.R.E.E. (Foundation for Rehabilitation Equipment & Endowment) provides mobility and rehabilitation equipment—like walkers, wheelchairs, and bath chairs—to adults who are uninsured, underinsured, or unable to afford them. Their work restores freedom of movement and reduces risk of injury or isolation.

The Epilepsy Foundation of Virginia offers education, advocacy, and direct support to people living with epilepsy, working to raise awareness and expand access to care.

Together with groups like Access Independence and NW Works, these organizations help ensure that people of all abilities can access the resources they need to live with confidence.

By investing in disability services and inclusive care, we’re building a future where everyone can thrive. These programs help people find stable housing, secure jobs, and access health services.

More importantly, they promote inclusion—not just access. Therefore, they help ensure that everyone belongs and has something to contribute.

Whether you’re seeking help or hoping to make a difference, you’re not alone. Visit Our Health’s Partner Agencies directory to find resources, connect with local nonprofits, or explore volunteer opportunities. In doing so, you’ll help build a more inclusive community—step by step.