Contributed Photo: Contributions to the GCRC are eligible for a dollar-for-dollar state income tax credit.
Contributed Article/Courtesy GGTCC
SAFFORD —Great Communities Resource Center has an important mission — to help the area’s most special citizens.
GCRC provides services to those with developmental disabilities. These services are needed now more than ever with autism cases increasing by 10 percent over the past 20 years, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control.
The Adult Day Program, for those 18 and older, provides communication, daily living, socialization, self-regulation, and life skills training to adults who need more assistance.
For teens and adults, there is pre-employment training and transition to employment, a 17-module program to help individuals prepare for work within the community, or at the GCRC Thrift Store, under the supervision of staff specially trained to assist and guide those with special needs. Employment in the community or at the Thrift Store helps GCRC members earn money and achieve a level of independence.
The Children’s After School and Summer programs provide services to children ages 6 to 18.
“And we support families in their homes,” said Lane Hegel, GCRC executive director. “We provide attendant care service, respite, habilitation training; those types of services.”
GCRC expanded its service area to include Willcox and northern Cochise County, providing the same care programs and job training — including the opportunity for adults to work at a GCRC Thrift Store — as offered in Graham and Greenlee counties.
Care and job training aren’t the only services offered by GCRC, there is also support and coaching for those who wish to participate in Special Olympics sports such as bowling, bocce, and track and field; and respite for family caregivers.
The Great Communities Resource Center’s mission continues thanks to the generous support of the community. For every $1 donated to GCRC through the Graham-Greenlee Tax Credit Coalition website — grahamgreenleetcc.org — the donor receives a $1 credit towards state tax liability through the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit.
Individuals can receive credit for donations up to $400 — up to $800 for couples filing jointly — but any amount donated is welcome and so necessary to keep this vital service available to the unique members of our community and their families.
To set up a monthly recurring donation of any amount of $5 or more, go to https://grahamgreenleetcc.org.
