Easterseals Tennessee, Inc.

Easterseals Tennessee, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing services for children and adults with disabilities, aiming to make profound positive differences in their lives. The organization is an affiliate of Easterseals National, part of a larger network that supports individuals with disabilities across the United States.

History

Easterseals Tennessee has been serving the community since 1923, offering a range of services designed to empower individuals with special needs. The organization's commitment aligns with the broader Easterseals mission, which began in 1919 as the National Society for Crippled Children. Over the years, Easterseals has expanded its scope to include support for veterans, military families, and seniors, in addition to its core focus on disability services.

Mission and Values

The mission of Easterseals Tennessee is to provide exceptional services ensuring that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities to live, learn, work, and play in their communities. The organization's core values include compassion, inclusivity, excellence, financial stability, and integrity. It operates with a person-centered approach, recognizing the unique needs and aspirations of each individual.

Services

Easterseals Tennessee offers a variety of programs and services tailored to support individuals with disabilities and special needs. Key services include:

• Recreational Camp: Providing summer camp experiences for children and young adults with disabilities.
• Supported Living: Assisting individuals to live independently within their communities.
• Supported Employment: Helping individuals find and maintain employment based on their skills and interests.
• Early Intervention: Offering developmental support for young children with disabilities or delays.
• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy: Providing behavioral therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder.
• Community Participation: Fostering social integration through community activities.
• Home Support Services: Offering assistance with daily living tasks.
• Medicaid Alternative Pathways to Independence (MAPS): Supporting independence through Medicaid services.

Advocacy and Impact

Easterseals Tennessee advocates for legislative action supporting individuals with disabilities. This aligns with Easterseals' broader advocacy efforts, which have included significant contributions to the passage and implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. The organization's services annually support nearly 2,000 children and adults across Tennessee, focusing on enhancing independence and community integration.

Organizational Structure and Partnerships

Easterseals Tennessee operates as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit under the umbrella of Easterseals National. In recent years, the organization has expanded its reach through strategic partnerships, such as the merger with Prospect in 2022, enhancing services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Financial and Operational Overview

Easterseals Tennessee relies on a combination of government grants, donations, and fee-for-service initiatives to sustain its operations and ensure financial stability. The organization is led by experienced executives with backgrounds in nonprofit management, focusing on growth, resource stewardship, and community engagement.