Our Above the Challenge Story
When our youngest child was born with a disability, we found ourselves part of a community in which we noticed so much unrecognized potential. As these children with various challenges grew into adults, it was disheartening to see the lack of opportunities for growth and success in life available to them.A working class family, we both went to work straight out of high school. However, we recognized that our ability is a tool and a gift that should be used to help those less advantaged. We wanted to help those for which many systems were not designed to achieve the same quality of life as those of us that don’t often think about whether there is a handicapped accessible bathroom in a public space.So we went to college. We earned degrees to highlight our qualifications to start our own agency for individuals like our own daughter, that deserve more than what we had seen made available.Our objective is to celebrate and share with the community the talents of our clients, to help them form real friendships, and to strengthen their life skills.Above The Challenge is a place where people with disabilities can be seen as more than that. They can be seen as people who deserve purpose and enjoyment and the empowerment to make choices of their own to live their lives to the fullest.- Jim and MaryAnn Gerken, Owners
Our Mission
Our main objective and ultimate goal is to provide exceptional quality of life to exceptional people. We advocate freedom of choice for our individuals, so they can lead the quality of life they would like to lead, with stability and safety paramount. Individuals will know there will be “Nothing about me without me.” We foster individuality, relationship building, and the freedom to take risks. These individuals should have the same rights of all citizens, to be a success in life, because we believe that they have much to offer in the community. We will be held accountable for the services our company provides. Through our many programs, we foster mentoring, collaboration, and community integration. We encourage individuals to rise above the challenge.
Our Vision
It is our vision that people with disabilities become accepted as everyday citizens by being able to show the world that they do indeed have something to offer. We strive to bring out each of the hidden talents that each person has, and share these talents with others, while building pride, self-esteem, and friendships. We provide only top-quality services, putting the needs of the individual first, and empowering them to live a more independent and satisfying life. We use Person- Centered Planning to make sure each person’s interests, strengths, and preferences are addressed. We are an equal opportunity employer and our carefully chosen and qualified staff enlist new and innovative approaches to deliver life-changing services.