FAQ

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 intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in Larimer County. These programs include training, supported employment, housing, habilitation, transportation, family support services, adult respite, early childhood intervention and case management for both children and adults.

What does it mean to have a developmental disability?

“Developmental Disability” means a disability that: A. Is manifested before the person reaches twenty-two (22) years of age; B. Constitutes a substantial disability to the affected individual, as demonstrated by the criteria below at C, 1 and/or C, 2; and, Is attributable to an intellectual and developmental disability or related conditions which include Prader-Willi syndrome, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism or other neurological conditions when such conditions result in impairment of general intellectual functioning or adaptive behavior similar to that of a person with an intellectual and developmental disability. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the federal definition of “developmental disability” found 42 U.S.C. § 15002, et seq., shall not apply. 1. “Impairment of general intellectual functioning” means that the person has been determined to have a full scale intellectual quotient equivalent which is two or more standard deviations below the mean (70 or less assuming a scale with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15). a. A secondary score comparable to the General Abilities Index for a Wechsler Intelligence Scale that is two or more standard deviations below the mean may be used only if a full scale score cannot be appropriately derived. b. Score shall be determined using a norm-referenced, standardized test of general intellectual functioning comparable to a comprehensively administered Wechsler Intelligence Scale or Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales, as revised or current to the date of administration. The test shall be administered by a licensed psychologist or a school psychologist. c. When determining the intellectual quotient equivalent score, a maximum confidence level of ninety percent (90%) shall be applied to the full scale score to determine if the interval includes a score of 70 or less and shall be interpreted to the benefit of the applicant being determined to have a developmental disability. 2. “Adaptive behavior similar to that of a person with intellectual disability “ means that the person has an overall adaptive behavior composite or equivalent score that is two or more standard deviations below the mean. a. Measurements shall be determined using a norm-referenced, standardized assessment of adaptive behaviors that is appropriate to the person’s living environment and comparable to a comprehensively administered Vineland Scale of Adaptive Behavior, as revised or current to the date of administration. The assessment shall be administered and determined by a professional qualified to administer the assessment used. b. When determining the overall adaptive behavior score, a maximum confidence level of ninety percent (90%) shall be applied to the overall adaptive behavior score to determine if the interval includes a score of 70 or less and shall be interpreted to the benefit of the applicant being determined to have a developmental disability.

How many people does Foothills Gateway, Inc. support?

Over 2,500 people AND their families receive service and support from FGI. Nearly 350 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.

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 is one successful service model offered through FGI’s supported employment program: mobile crew employment services and individual employment services. Individual employment services pairs 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.

What do people 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 people live? How do they pay for living expenses?

Individuals 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 people in services?

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. Each individual is unique in their level of ability, therefore FGI strives to develop tailor-made programs that will meet the needs of each person.

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 person, 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. You can find this information at the bottom of this site page.

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.