Living independently presents numerous challenges for adults with disabilities, including the management of medications, therapies and medical equipment, as well as navigating limited mobility, transportation barriers and safety concerns. The lack of a robust support system can complicate daily living. COMPASS, based out of Shasta County, is dedicated to addressing these complexities by providing personalized, flexible support services designed to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Established in 1996, COMPASS has experienced significant growth, expanding its services throughout Northern California in partnership with five regional centers. The organization is now preparing to broaden its impact by extending its services to Southern California.
COMPASS services promote independence and connection
The Independent Living Services, Supported Living Services and Coordinated Family Support Services programs that COMPASS offers are designed to help adults with disabilities maintain their independence while ensuring they have the resources, guidance and community connections necessary to thrive in their own homes.
Coordinated Family Support (CFS) Specialists play a vital role in advocating for their clients. For example, after years of struggling to obtain a new wheelchair, Maria from Shasta County finally received one thanks to the dedication and perseverance of her CFS Specialist. This wheelchair has transformed her daily life, increasing her independence and allowing her to engage more fully with her community. CFS Specialists like Maria’s provide personalized guidance and collaborate with families to create a strong support system. They empower clients to grow, gain independence and access new opportunities that may not have been possible otherwise.
The Supported Living Services (SLS) provides personalized assistance with daily activities such as dressing, grooming and meal preparation. Independent Living Services (ILS) on the other hand, focus more on developing the skills necessary for managing everyday responsibilities with minimal support. This might include budgeting and financial planning, job coaching and navigating community resources.
While SLS and ILS participants often live on their own, the CFS service is specifically designed for individuals who live with family. Recognizing the diverse backgrounds of the families they serve, COMPASS ensures culturally responsive care, fostering inclusion and respect in every aspect of their work. Sarah Mabee, marketing and event supervisor for COMPASS, explains that the Coordinated Family Support service is new to California. “We’re one of the pilot organizations that’s running this service,” she says.
Adults with disabilities enjoy access to social and recreational activities and connections through COMPASS Bridge to Belonging. Photo provided by COMPASS
COMPASS seeks to revolutionize the direct care industry
In addition to offering direct support services, COMPASS provides a variety of consulting services aimed at empowering other direct care providers and organizations. “Our heart is to radically change the entire industry,” says Sarah. To further support caregivers, they recently launched a podcast that delivers practical insights, expert advice and real-world strategies for those on the front lines of care.
COMPASS supports industry growth through its Innovation and Expansion Department, dedicated to advancing the direct care field beyond its own services. One key venture is QuickSolve Plus, their proprietary software designed to streamline administrative tasks and improve efficiency, currently used by over 80 organizations. COMPASS also hosts conferences, offers training programs and provides educational resources to promote best practices, with a vision to expand its impact nationwide.
Bridge to Belonging creates spaces where everyone feels welcome
According to Sarah, COMPASS recognizes that people with disabilities often “have a hard time feeling like they belong.” This sense of isolation can stem from various factors, such as social stigma, negative stereotypes and a lack of accessible places. COMPASS actively secures and manages grants that fund educational initiatives for service providers and clients, focusing on combating loneliness and isolation and promoting community inclusion.
Bridge to Belonging is a State Council grant-funded Compass initiative that ensures that adults with disabilities have access to activities where they are seen, heard, understood and allowed to be their authentic selves. The program offers three key tracks: social and recreational connections, health and wellness, and arts and creativity. It offers a mix of virtual and in-person events, ensuring accessibility for all participants.
The social and recreational connections track focuses on intentionally integrating adults with disabilities into existing community activities, working closely with event organizers to create inclusive, welcoming environments. The arts and creativity track is adapted to participants’ interests, with events and workshops shaped by feedback from community surveys to reflect what people are most passionate about.
How to access COMPASS services
To be eligible for COMPASS services, you must be 18 years or older and a client of a Regional Center. While COMPASS strives to serve a diverse range of clients, its programs are best suited for individuals whose support needs do not involve highly complex medical care or intensive behavioral challenges. If you’re located in the North State and interested in starting services with COMPASS, reach out to your service coordinator at Far Northern Regional Center to begin the referral process.farnorthernrc.org
Posted in: Special Needs
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