Frequently Asked Questions
We have provided a number of frequently asked questions along with their
answers. If you cannot find the answer to your question below, you can also
email us.
What is Foothills Gateway, Inc.?
Foothills Gateway, Inc. (FGI) is a local non-profit organization that
provides services and support programs for individuals with cognitive
disabilities and their families in Larimer County. These programs include
training, supported employment, housing, habilitation, transportation, family
support services, adult respite and early childhood intervention.
What does it mean to be cognitively disabled (mentally
retarded)?
Cognitive disability is defined by the State of Colorado as…a substantial
disability that occurs prior to the age of 22 and that is attributable to mental
retardation or related conditions, which include cerebral palsy, epilepsy,
autism or other neurological or adaptive behavior.
How many people
does Foothills Gateway, Inc. support?
Over 1,100 people
AND their families receive service and support from FGI. Nearly 300
individuals and their families are currently on a waiting list to receive
services/supports from Foothills Gateway, Inc.
How is Foothills
Gateway, Inc. funded?
Funding for services and support comes from
county, state, federal and private funds.
What is a Foothills
Gateway, Inc. “client?”
Client is the term used to describe
individuals receiving services and supports from Foothills Gateway, Inc.
How does Foothills
Gateway, Inc. determine who receives assistance? Who maintains quality control
of service and support programs?
Skilled Case Managers document eligibility
for services and then assist individuals and their families with developing a
plan of action that includes getting connected with services and supports. Case
Management actively coordinates and monitors service agencies contracting with
FGI, individuals receiving FGI services and individuals waiting for services.
What kind of
employment services does Foothills Gateway, Inc. provide?
There are two successful service models
offered through FGI’s supported employment program: mobile crew employment
services and individual employment services. The former offers a highly
structured work environment, while the latter program involves FGI staff working
with participants to ensure success at a job by assisting and consulting with
both the business and the individual to encourage a productive vocational
experience.
Foothills Gateway,
Inc. also procures contract work from local businesses, giving individuals with
cognitive disabilities the opportunity to gain valuable work skills while
earning wages. Facility-based opportunities for paid work include assembly,
parts packaging, mailing services, janitorial, and shipping & receiving.
What do clients do
with the wages they earn through employment?
Employment wages help pay for basic living
expenses including food, shelter and clothing as well as recreational and social
expenses.
What if a person
can’t work? What kind of training/education do they receive?
For individuals who are medically fragile or who need intensive
support and supervision, FGI offers site-based services such as daily living
skill training, recreational and community-based activities.
Where do
individuals live? How do they pay for living expenses?
Participants may live with their family or
in apartments or houses throughout the community and are supported by agency
staff or host families. They may receive SSI, SSDI, or other state and/or
federal funding. Foothills Gateway,
Inc. also administers a Section 8 Subsidies (HUD) program, which enables
individuals to better afford housing by subsidizing their rent.
What is involved in
the daily activities of clients?
Depending on their level of ability, individuals
participate in a variety of programs offered through Foothills Gateway, Inc.
They may work in the community, attend classes, receive specialized training, go
to therapy, volunteer in the community, etc. Because each individual is unique
in their level of ability, FGI strives to develop tailor-made programs that will
meet the needs of the participant.
Does Foothills
Gateway, Inc. provide transportation services?
Yes, transportation services are provided
for individuals between their home and program/work settings and other community
areas. Depending on the needs of the individual, transportation may be provided
by FGI or contracted with other program approved service providers such as taxis
and the public transportation systems.
How can I apply for services at Foothills Gateway,
Inc.?
Contact FGI by mail, phone or email and
request to speak with an Intake Case Manager.
How can I volunteer
at Foothills Gateway, Inc.?
Volunteering at Foothills Gateway, Inc. is
a challenging and rewarding experience. As a volunteer, you have the opportunity
to make a positive impact in someone’s life and in our community. Just give us a call to find out your
many options at (970) 266-5379.