OUR MISSION

Families for Independent Living (FFIL) is dedicated to promoting and advocating for the support of persons experiencing intellectual developmental disabilities in a variety of housing settings that best suit their individual needs.  

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OUR HISTORY

In the mid 1990’s, out of frustration over the “wait-list” dilemma, parents of adults with developmental disabilities began meeting  to sort out the need for support services, employment and housing.  In 1996, one group, focused mainly on housing, became Washington County Families for Independent Living which received tax exempt status in 1998.

 

THE BRIDGE APARTMENTS FORMATION

• 1999: Began collaborative efforts with affordable housing companies and community development organizations.

• 2002: “The Bridge” received full funding through the HUD 811 program.

• 2003: Shaped vision for operations and activities for residents and advocates.

• 2004: Official groundbreaking for construction of The Bridge.

• 2005: Official grand opening of The Bridge; Advocate and Resident Councils formed; 14 residents moved into The Bridge.

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MERLO STATION APARTMENTS FORMATION

• 2005:  Partnered with Assisted Shared Apartment Program (ASAP) and housing development company to set aside units for FFIL and ASAP in the Merlo Station project.

• 2007-2008: The Independent Living Program was launched to prepare new residents for independent living

• 2008:  Official grand opening of Merlo Station Apartments; 29 residents moved into new apartments at Merlo Station.

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HOUSING ADVOCACY THROUGH COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

• 1999:  Networking Director added to the FFIL Board. Joined the Housing Advocacy Group (now the Coalition of Housing Advocates - CHA) and the Housing and Supportive Services Network (HSSN) as the only housing advocate for individuals with intellectual developmental disabilities.

• 2009: FFIL helped launch Housing Independence to become its own 501-c-3 non-profit status with a mission to provide safe and affordable housing and service programs to adults with developmental disabilities.

• 2000-2009:  Increased associations with community partners including Washington County Housing, the City of Beaverton, HUD, State of Oregon legislators and other sister housing organizations which led to the development of The Bridge and Merlo Station.

• 2010:  Partnered with Housing Independence to broaden the Independent Living Program.  FFIL sponsored mentoring workshops for families transitioning to independent living.

• 2012:  Participated in the development of the Developmental Disability Community Forum, created to address housing and support service needs in and ever changing housing environment.

• 2016:  Joined Washington County THRIVES, a collaborative organization focused on affordable housing, services and education.  Developed a referral partnership with PedCor for Sunset View Apartments.

• 2017:  Collaborated with Allied Argenta for the redevelopment of Fircrest Manor apartments.

• FFIL is currently advocating for affordable housing in Washington County through CHA and HSSN work groups.  Serving as an ongoing resource for families seeking info re: housing for adults experiencing developmental disabilities.

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