The Foothills Advocacy In Motion Society has branches in the communities of High River, Okotoks and Strathmore in southern Alberta.  We are currently accepting applications from individual seeking support.  Please read below for the process needed to gain access to the AIM Society.

Developmental Disability is defined as a state of functioning that begins in childhood and is characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual capacity and adaptive skills.  The following criteria are used to make the determination of developmental disability:

1. Significantly below average intellectual capacity.
2. Onset prior to age 18.
3. Related limitations in two or more of the following adaptive skill areas: communication, home living, community use, health and safety, leisure, self-care, social skills, self-direction, functional academics and/or work.

How and When to Apply:

Step One:
In order to qualify for our programs applicants must first be deemed eligible.  As such, the PDD Intake office in Calgary will be your first stop.  You must call (403) 297- 5130 and an Intake Coordinator will help determine if you are eligible for PDD services.

CALGARY REGION COMMUNITY BOARD
Persons with Developmental Disabilities
Ministry of Alberta Community Development
4th Floor TGS Place, #400, 1520 4 St SW Calgary, AB T2R 1H5
Main Switchboard 297-501
E-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it - or - Visit the website: www.pdd.org

When a child with a disability turns 18, they may enter the adult service system.  At least one (1) year prior to the child’s 18th birthday, the family should begin the application process.  Documents to support eligibility must be provided.  The applicant may be asked for information/assessments related to the individual’s general intelligence and ability to function.  If the individual does not qualify for PDD Services, the Intake staff will provide information about other programs and services that may be more appropriate.  All decisions regarding eligibility are open to appeal.

Step Two:
If the applicant is deemed eligible, a Client Services Coordinator, from the Calgary office, will schedule a time to meet the individual and his or her support network.  The purpose of the meeting is to determine the amount of assistance needed and to develop an action plan to find the necessary supports.  The Coordinator will also assist in providing information and consultation about resources in other areas such as financial assistance, guardianship and trusteeship, etc.

• What can a Client Services Coordinator do?
• Help to identify and prioritize areas of need.
• Provide information about service options regarding community living supports, employment, community access, day programs and specialized services such as behavioral and emergency supports.
• Plan service options including peer matching and help to build a support network.
• Help to reconnect with individuals when changes occur in the service system and further planning is required.
• Maintain contact to ensure services are meeting the individual’s needs.

Problem solve in the event of placement breakdown or other difficulties.

If Not Deemed Eligible:
The Intake Coordinator may suggest alternative resources (where available).  Denial of eligibility can be appealed first to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), then to a Community Review Committee and finally to a Provincial Appeal Committee.

We know the process can often seem daunting, and we encourage you to
CONTACT US
in order that we might answer your questions and concerns, and help set you in the appropriate direction.