By Jean Phelps
Chief Executive Officer
As July comes to a close, it’s clear that summer at Incompass has been anything but quiet. Across our programs, individuals have been enjoying community outings, seasonal activities, and countless experiences that foster independence, confidence, and connection. These moments are more than summer memories – they are reminders of what is possible when people have the support and opportunities to thrive.
This month also marked the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a landmark piece of legislation that continues to shape a more accessible, equitable, and inclusive society. Its legacy serves as an important reminder that creating opportunities and removing barriers is an ongoing responsibility we all share.
The ADA’s promise is inseparable from the principles affirmed in Olmstead: that people with disabilities have the right to live, work, and participate in the most integrated settings appropriate to their needs. Olmstead refers to the 1999 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Olmstead v. L.C., which held that unjustified segregation of people with disabilities is a form of discrimination under the ADA. Access to home- and community-based services (HCBS) is essential to making that promise real, helping individuals remain connected to their families, communities, and daily lives rather than being forced into institutional settings. Recent Department of Justice memos that seek to narrow federal enforcement of Olmstead and the ADA’s integration mandate pose a serious threat to decades of progress, underscoring why continued advocacy for Home and Community Based Services (HCBS), civil rights protections, and community inclusion remains so urgent.
At Incompass Human Services, these values are woven into everything we do. Every day, our Care Champions empower individuals to pursue their goals, strengthen their independence, and build meaningful lives within their communities. We remain committed to creating opportunities, removing barriers, and advocating for a future where every person is valued, respected, and able to reach their full potential.
As we look ahead to the fall, we are energized by what’s to come. From celebrating Direct Support Professional Recognition Week in September to preparing for our annual Give for Good campaign and continuing to build new community partnerships, there is much to look forward to. Each initiative represents another opportunity to advance our mission and strengthen the communities we serve.
Thank you to our Care Champions, families, volunteers, donors, and community partners for your unwavering support and dedication. Together, we continue building a more inclusive community- based future – one person, one partnership, and one opportunity at a time.