So often we hear of a problem, bemoan the fate of those affected by it, but do little to work toward a solution. That was not the case as Peak Community Services staff and Board of Directors recognized that nearly 200 people in Cass and Pulaski County were unable to receive needed services, despite certification of that need by the Indiana Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Services (BDDS).

The problem was a lack of State funding. Peak Community Services personnel and Board could complain and do nothing, essentially waiting as helplessly as those on the waiting list for services, or could choose to take action. They chose the latter - one of the only known organizations of its kind in Indiana to do so in their particularly creative way. Several steps were identified that could lead toward serving those on the waiting list.

1. The agency could communicate the mission more clearly to the public. They began a series of monthly tours for community members of Cass and Pulaski Counties through which they sought to increase public awareness.

2. They asked those who expressed interest in furthering the mission of Peak Community Services for their support. This support could take many forms, including advocacy with the State and others in the local community, and through donations of various kinds, including monetary donations.

3. They distributed applications to organizations having contact with the otherwise anonymous individuals who are on the waiting lists. Individuals were informed of the effort to more promptly serve them and were asked to apply for the services they needed.

4. They created a Foundation, separate from Peak Community Services, but fully dedicated to the same mission of serving those on the waiting list. The Board of Directors of the Foundation has the duty of managing and distributing the funds that will support services.

I am honored to hold the office of President of that Foundation Board of Directors. It has been said that “All things come to those who wait.” You will be learning in future newsletters of the services that the Foundation is supporting - the “things that come to those who have been waiting.” It took the power of a caring community who, working together, took positive action to help some of its members.

To all of those who have given so much to make it possible for the Foundation to offer services to those on the waiting list, I offer my heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the Foundation Board and the people who will no longer be waiting helplessly for the services that they need to become full and active members of the community.