Stephanie

As an Independent Living Advocate, I support individuals with disabilities in achieving their self‑determined independent living goals, including communication, educational advancement, vocational development, personal resource management, and self‑advocacy. I provide core independent living services such as skills training, advocacy, and information and referral to promote autonomy and community inclusion. I am also a certified Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) Counselor, offering education and guidance on Medicare coverage, answering questions related to Medicaid and Social Security, and assisting consumers in navigating complex benefit systems. In addition, I serve as the Lead for the Community Reintegration Program (CRP), a state‑funded initiative designed to transition eligible nursing facility residents back into independent community living. Through CRP, I coordinate assessments, secure affordable housing, arrange home health and personal assistant services, provide independent living skills training, and obtain essential household items, assistive equipment, and environmental modifications needed for safe, successful reintegration. The program’s goal is to identify and implement the supports necessary for individuals to re‑establish independence in their own homes while promoting long‑term stability and self‑sufficiency.