Watch Us Grow!

lifempowered envisions a county where all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have full access to their community and are viewed as valued and contributing members. 

In an ongoing priority to be the leading resource for Intellectual and Development Disabilities (IDD) services in Columbia County, we need a fully accessible, appropriately designed space to serve more people with IDD. Our current building is aged, built as a warehouse for production, and not intended for its current uses. This new 10,000 SF Empowerment Center will replace our current facility and be fully accessible to individuals we serve and act as a community resource for those with IDD. This new Empowerment Center, at a project cost of $4.7 million, will provide independent skill building through self-advocacy meetings, educational activities and a teaching kitchen geared towards people with IDD as well as low-income families. This center will improve collaboration through strategic partnerships with the potential to provide job skill development that aligns with the intention to enhance the quality of life for those who visit, live and work in our community.   

This new Empowerment Center will include:

• Secure reception area
• A teaching kitchen for hosting classes for people with IDD and low income families
• A large multi use space with integrated technology for events & classes
• Specialized spaces such as a quiet space, green room, and exercise space
• Full accessible restrooms with accessible showers
• Maintenance space and shop for a lift & vehicles, work benches, and appliance storage
• Resource Library
• Conference Room
• Administration offices

Through an extensive process of market research and community outreach, we have garnered strong support from local officials in the city and county, community members and local businesses. We have been able to procure the land upon which the existing and future building will sit, addressing concerns about the feasibility of long term grant funding.  An assessment of the current facility indicates the need for new construction as the most efficient and cost effective solution.

We look forward to discussing the project more with you. We would be more than happy to arrange a tour of the building site.