Nonprofit empowering those with disabilities to live healthy, joyful lives

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — Each month, Atlanta News First donates to an organization doing good in our community as part of our Three Degree Guarantee program.

The amount of money we donate depends on the accuracy of our First Alert Weather Team and the donation is matched by our partners at Coolray.

This month, Atlanta News First is highlighting InCommunity, the largest provider of services in Georgia for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The nonprofit believes in the value and dignity of every person, along with their right to be full, contributing members of their communities.

Since 1979, the organization has worked alongside individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to build lives of choice, connection and belonging in communities across Georgia.

Shannon McClure, the chief development officer at InCommunity, said it’s more than just a job.

“It has been the most rewarding experience with people with IDD and get to know personally,” McClure said.

McClure and the staff at InCommunity serve thousands of people in Georgia with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

To date, InCommunity has provided support and service to more than 10,000 Georgian community members.

“People with IDD, I learned are just like us,” McClure said. “Some people have really loud personalities, and others are quiet. Some people are very communicative; others are not. They have likes and dislikes the same as us. Some people love to hug; others do not want anyone to touch them. They have hobbies, gifts, and talents just like all of us.”

In addition to the arts and crafts program, InCommunity offers wrap-around services like residential living, supported employment, clinical services, and family support services.

With each relationship built, sparks another success story.

“Last fall, he had been non verbal,” McClure said. “Last year he came into the office, drove a long way with his mother to say thank you and her name. She had never heard him speak before.”

In year 47 at InCommunity, the goal remains consistent. Taking care of all, just like family.

“It’s a care giver environment, but there are definitely components of friendship and affection in those relationships,” McClure said. “We hope that the more that we do that, the more the community will engage with people with IDD and see all of the incredible value they bring to our community.”

For more information about InCommunity, click here.