Structure of Independence Associates, Inc.

Independence Associates, Inc. is a not for profit organization that receives funding from Federal, State and private sources. IA has over 100 dues paying members that elect the Board of Directors at the Annual Membership Meeting. The Board of Directors sets policies to guide the organization toward the fulfillment of its mission, ensures the fiscal integrity of the organization, and provides the long-range vision and plans for the organization. The Board of Directors hires the Executive Director who is responsible for the implementation of the policies and plans.

IA currently has twelve full-time staff and one part-time position providing direct services and administrative support. We also utilize the services of five professional consultants that perform their duties on an as needed basis. We are in the process of developing a peer advocate program in which we utilize experienced consumers to serve as mentors or peer counselors for the other consumers.

As an independent living center, we have a specific geographic area that consists of 45 cities and towns in which we provide services.