GoodLife Innovations
Overview
GoodLife Innovations, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that provides innovative solutions and support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Established in 1977, the company has its headquarters in Lenexa, Kansas, USA. The mission of GoodLife Innovations is to enable people with disabilities to live more independent, fulfilling, and meaningful lives. The organization employs over 500 staff members and caters to the needs of more than 500 individuals across Kansas, using a combination of community-based support systems and technological innovations.
Recent Developments
- December 2023: GoodLife Innovations announced the successful expansion of its Neighborhood Network into Sedgwick County, following receipt of grant funding from the Sedgwick County Developmental Disabilities Organization. The network aims to provide community-based services to residents with developmental disabilities. Plans to further extend these services are ongoing.
- 2023: In collaboration with iLink Technologies, GoodLife demonstrated their service models to the Kansas Senior Care Task Force to illustrate potential benefits for aging populations, particularly in maintaining home-based living.
- 2023: The organization continued to improve its direct support professional (DSP) program by introducing new strategic initiatives funded by the Deffenbaugh Foundation, aiming to enhance the quality of life for DSPs through benefits like housing subsidies and student loan repayment aids.
- December 2022: GoodLife celebrated significant achievements, such as the award of Community Service Tax Credits for their Midnight Farm, allowing for enhanced fundraising to support facility upgrades.
- 2022: The GoodLife U program reportedly helped various agencies across 15 states improve their direct support workforce capacities, impacting around 700 individuals.
- 2022: Enhanced engagement programs were initiated to build stronger relationships with the parents and guardians of the individuals served, alongside initiatives for supporting DSPs more effectively.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 1977 |
| Headquarters | Lenexa, Kansas, USA |
| Founders | Not publicly known |
| Industry | Nonprofit Social Services |
| Number of Employees | Over 500 |
| Key Investors | Deffenbaugh Foundation, Sedgwick County Developmental Disabilities Organization |
Early History
Established in 1977, GoodLife Innovations was originally formed to provide community-focused support services for people with disabilities to enhance their independence and quality of life. Over the first few decades, GoodLife grew its influence by focusing on local needs in Kansas, continuously developing and iterating on its service delivery models to better meet the requirements of its clients. Through a consistent mission of promoting personal satisfaction and fulfilling lifestyles, GoodLife began incorporating innovative technology solutions early on to support its expanding range of services.
Company Profile and Achievements
GoodLife Innovations employs a unique approach to disability support, integrating community-based living models with advanced technology solutions.
- Neighborhood Network: This model offers semi-independent living by pairing disabled individuals with neighbor professionals who provide support as needed, focusing on prompt and community-based interventions.
- Set-Works Collaboration: By partnering with SETWorks, GoodLife has optimized its data management and billing processes, resulting in significant time savings and improved service efficiency.
- Midnight Farm: This facility serves as a therapeutic and recreation center. In 2022, it received tax credit awards facilitating the construction of additional homes and upgrades.
- GoodLife U: The training and support program tailored to increase the capacity and stability of the national direct support workforce, impacting numerous states through improved service strategies.
Current Operations and Market Position
GoodLife continues to operate as a leading nonprofit in the social services sector, focused on disability and senior care. Their approach combines direct care with strategic technology, such as the iLink support tools, to enhance the quality of living for the clients served. The organization’s focus is to maintain low service costs while maximizing the reach and impact of its programs.
Conclusion
GoodLife Innovations stands out in the nonprofit sector due to its focus on integrating socially responsible methods with cutting-edge technology to empower individuals with I/DD. The organization’s continuous expansion and upgrades to its Neighborhood Networks demonstrate its commitment to extending high-quality, sustainable support services. With innovative service models and a robust infrastructure, GoodLife is positioned to grow its impact, potentially serving more communities in Kansas and beyond. The future of GoodLife Innovations hinges on maintaining its mission-driven focus while embracing technological advancements in disability care.