Mainstream Services helps those with developmental disabilities

LAVALETTE -- As a special education teacher for 18 years, Angela Maynard knew of the need for services for people with developmental disabilities in Cabell and Wayne counties.

While many agencies already were in place, Maynard felt individuals living in rural areas were in particular need.

"That's why we're here ... to give them another option," she said.

Mainstream Services, located on W.Va. 152 in Lavalette, has grown since it opened in late 2004. The agency provides services such as supportive employment assistance, long-term living arrangements, and basic day-to-day living skills. It currently serves approximately 36 people, ages 4 to 45.

The agency also offers a "dayhab center" that teaches consumers to be independent. They typically spend six hours at the Mainstream Academy Site-Based Day Habilitation Center, studying academics and working on social and recreational skills.

Debra Wright, fundraiser event coordinator for the agency, said Mainstream Services provides its own services and also connects the developmentally disabled and their families to other resources.

She said the day-habilitation center is a place where adults can visit up to five days each week, completing projects or learning the skills to become independent. The center includes a bedroom, shower, washer and dryer to teach those individuals how to make a bed or do laundry.

Wright said the agency is also in the process of expanding to serve more people, and continues to spread the word about its services.

Maynard said the agency has exceeded its initial projections, but also has grown at a reasonable rate it can handle.

"We're here to provide the quality services," she said.

A fundraiser to help pay for audio/visual equipment for the agency is scheduled to take place from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at the IHOP near the Huntington Mall. Twenty percent of the proceeds from dinners during those hours will go to help Mainstream Services.

Mainstream Services only serves individuals who are part of West Virginia's Title 19 MR/DD Waiver Program, but the agency can help individuals apply for that waiver program if they are not enrolled.

More information about Mainstream Services is available by calling 304-522-1945.