Who they are:
CRi has supported people with developmental disabilities and mental health needs since 1975, when a group of Arlington families, faith groups, and government leaders chartered the organization to help individuals live and work in their own local communities. Today CRi’s programs span Developmental Disabilities Services, Mental Health Services, and Youth Services including supported living, skilled nursing, day programs, targeted case management, and a program helping foster care youth ages 17–21 transition to independent living. CRi’s stated mission is to help every individual, regardless of ability, pursue choice, respect, independence, and the resources needed to live a fulfilling life with dignity and purpose.
Persons met:
- Tania
- Justin
- Kenneth
- Kevin
- Erica
Their mission:
CRi is dedicated to providing personalized resources to youth and adults with mental health needs and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities.
What stood out on the visit
- CRi is exceptionally person-centered, innovative, and ambitious, committed to doing whatever it takes to serve the people in their communities.
- Their approach to disability services is broad and layered, spanning Permanent Supportive Housing, wrap-around case management, and community-oriented day programming so that support meets people wherever they are in their journey.
- Their in-house day programs put autonomy and personal choice into practice, not just policy. The space is organized into multiple sensory and interest-focused rooms, giving individuals real options in how they spend their time rather than a one-size-fits-all schedule.