A contributed perspectives piece by April Helper
As demand for disability support services continues to grow nationwide, non-profit organizations like Adagio House help by providing personal care that often goes beyond what government programs alone can offer.
The conversation around what defines quality care has never been more important yet continues to be overlooked. Recent cuts to Medicaid and government disability funding have raised concerns about access to essential services for individuals with disabilities.
Government programs play a critical role in supporting care for those who rely on specialized services, and reductions leave families with even fewer options tailored towards supporting those with disabilities.
I founded Adagio House in 2018 to provide support for individuals with disabilities and the caregivers who support them. Recognizing the gaps in accessible physical and mental healthcare for those with disabilities, I worked to provide trauma-informed care and a place of community for individuals and their families.
The real stories of those impacted by Adagio House are at the heart of why the work of organizations like ours matter so much. Each person we support serves as a powerful reminder that behind every initiative is a human experience, and it is these experiences that demonstrate the importance of the work we’ve committed ourselves to.
Relationships are at the heart of what we do. Sandra is a caregiver who was in urgent need of respite care. Finding services through Adagio made a profound difference in her life and her son’s.
As she shares, “The staff really care about clients… They have gone the extra mile to accommodate my schedule and make sure there is a good fit.” Her experience illustrates how flexible care is better suited to provide support for families managing complex needs.
Government disability services receive frequent criticisms for lacking flexibility and adaptability, causing scheduling issues and long waits to receive critical services. Smoother processes and continuity with familiar staff can make services more effective, helping individuals with disabilities feel secure while giving families the respite they need.
Stories like Sandra’s highlight that quality disability care is not just about offering services; it is about providing flexibility, which is essential to supporting well-being and independence.
I enjoy being able to witness and contribute to an organization that is rooted in genuine compassion for those with disabilities and their caregivers. Local non-profits have staff who are dedicated to reducing stigmas and making sure the voices of those affected by disabilities are heard.
As one caregiver facing family hardships shares, “It has been very helpful to have someone with whom to discuss the situation. It has helped me get a better grip on my feelings and frustrations, and I’m confident that working through counseling will make the transition ahead even stronger.”
Another family reflects a similarly meaningful transformation, noting, “We’ve been pleased with our experience and have found it really beneficial. My child has gone from daily struggles to thriving, and emotional regulation now comes much more easily.”
These stories highlight how non-profits that provide genuine connection foster resilience, growth, and lasting positive change.
While government programs can help offset the cost of care, they rarely eliminate it entirely. Many families still face out-of-pocket expenses for services, transportation, or specialized support, creating ongoing financial strain.
This reality makes affordability a critical factor in accessing consistent, high-quality care. Expanding funding, increasing flexibility in coverage, and supporting organizations that bridge these gaps are essential steps toward ensuring individuals and families can receive the care they need without added financial burden.
Recognizing the essential role these organizations play is the first step toward meaningful change. Non-profits provide critical support that often fills the gaps left by traditional systems, ensuring individuals and families receive the care they deserve.
Supporting these efforts, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness, can make a tangible difference in expanding access and sustaining services.
Exploring non-profit care options not only connects families with more flexible and compassionate resources, but also strengthens a network dedicated to long-term impact.
By investing in these organizations, we can help build a more accessible, supportive system of care for all.
April Hepler is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Founder, and Executive Director of Adagio House in Harrisonburg, VA. Applying her counseling expertise, April founded Adagio House in 2018 to support those with disabilities and their caregivers. April holds a BS in Counseling from Grace College & Seminary and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Eastern Mennonite University.
