TRPIL (Transitional Paths to Independent Living)
Washington – (724) 223-5115
www.trpil.com

What is the most utilized service that your organization provides?

Our most utilized service would more than likely be Peer Support/Skills Training, which allows for individuals with disabilities to meet with TRPIL staff who also have a disability, and create achievable, measurable goals to be more independent.

Do you offer any services that people may be unaware of?

In addition to providing lesser-known services like Advocacy support, in which we help empower individuals while also affirming liberty and justice for people with disabilities, TRPIL is the local Assistive Technology Resource Center (ATRC). As the region's ATRC, we work with individuals to obtain AT devices to use in their everyday life, and also gameplan with them to determine which AT can be used to allow them even more independence at home, such as voice-activated smart lights, 3-D printed items, etc.

What would you say is the most significant obstacle that families face in getting the services they need?

Unfortunately, many families simply may not know where to even begin looking for assistance, with regard to disability services. Red tape is another significant obstacle when going through enrollment/ approval processes, but knowing who to call first and being able to navigate the system can be daunting in its own right. Thankfully, TRPIL has a dedicated Information & Referral department that allows for those in need to speak with staff directly about their unique circumstances, and they will be made aware of all opportunities available to them. From there, families or individuals will be routed to the appropriate department, or even the proper agency, if the service is provided outside of TRPIL's four walls.

What makes your organization unique?

TRPIL has been proudly serving individuals with disabilities throughout Southwest PA for 35 years. We are also a Center for Independent Living (CIL), which means that we offer much more than just one single service.

What is "trauma-informed care"?

Trauma-Informed Care is an approach to care that places an emphasis on ensuring safety and support for individuals who have experienced trauma in their lives. This method begins by putting a focus on awareness and respectful acknowledgement of one's trauma, and then looks to create a safe space for the individual in question by looking to make sure that they are surrounded by those who fully support them. Members of this "team" must be reliable and trustworthy, as well as good stewards of the healing process.

What resource have you found that you would like to share with others?

As the local Center for Independent Living, TRPIL is in touch with many different supports for those in need, but we would urge those who are looking for disability-related resources to contact us directly. That way, our dedicated Information & Referral staff can either connect them to the TRPIL staff that specialize in the matter at hand, or can even work to point them in the right direction, if they need assistance from outside of our agency.