On-The-Move Supports Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

On-The-Move Community Integration - Portland, OR

Since 2007, On-the-Move Community Integration has been modeling progressive approaches to community inclusion for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their program is designed around the understanding that to be healthy, all individuals must have meaningful daily activities that contribute to their growth, fulfillment, and community.

In the program, small groups of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities work with their support staff to plan and engage in a wide variety of activities and partnerships. Groups use public transportation to travel throughout the city to maximize their time in the community and the program’s sustainability. Participants explore museums, hike in Portland’s many outdoor areas, attend dance workshops and jam sessions at local music studios, volunteer at the zoo and other local nonprofits, take part in inclusive fitness classes at a local gym, and much more.

On-the-Move’s person-centered, community-based model of supporting small groups to access activities of their choosing has become more prevalent as people have seen the positive impact it has on both the population they serve and the community at large. Their participation, visibility, and advocacy help create the society they envision: one that not only welcomes but relies on the talents, skills, and perspectives of everyone.

Financial support from the JTMF Foundation is allowing On-the-Move to maintain low staff-to- participant ratios in their groups, typically two or three participants to one staff, while also expanding the program to more participants. Additionally, rather than focus on free activities, outside funding provides support for participants to take part in special activities and partnerships such as dance and fitness workshops, ensuring nobody is excluded due to cost. The community is better because of the great work On-the-Move does!

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