North Valley Services
Promoting opportunities for people with disabilities in the environment they choose is the mission of North Valley Services (NVS).
The nonprofit, which was formed in 1967, serves Tehama, Glenn, and Lassen counties by offering Employment Services, Day Services, Residential Services, and Transportation Services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A positive environment is key for each person’s growth and development.
“Learning occurs more effectively when people feel comfortable and accepted, build relationships with others, and truly believe they can succeed. We facilitate this process by inspiring participants to choose their own path and celebrating each success with them,” said Kevin Jones, North Valley Services’ Chief Executive Officer.
NVS has grown significantly in both people served and physical locations of its facilities. Participants can select from a variety of programs that align with their goals. All programs emphasize a person-centered approach, independence, integration into the community, and development of functional skills. They choose daily activities that promote self-advocacy, functional education, vocational skills, social skills, recreation, leisure skills, personal care, and any other training requested.
Highly trained, supportive staff maintain a positive environment that is responsive to the needs of each person as they learn. In-house Day Services activities include academics, sign language, self-help, culinary and household skills, to name just a few. Community-based activities occur daily and include, but are not limited to, volunteer work, shopping, attending local community events, patronizing local establishments, visiting museums and historical places of interest, attending a fitness club and joining a community recreation league.
“Participants really enjoy the variety, flexibility, interaction, and community access available at all Day Services sites. They also appreciate the opportunity to become active and contributing members of their community,” Jones said.
NVS’ Community Employment Services provides training and assistance to participants who wish to obtain competitive employment. NVS partners with local businesses to create supported employment opportunities to teach necessary job skills. The organization also provides full- and part-time employment to approximately 175 people with disabilities. These positions occur through various federal, state, and local contracts. Some of the positions include rest area attendant, janitorial worker, grounds maintenance, landscaping, and visitor center, host.
North Valley Services’ Residential Homes provide 24-hour services within a safe and caring environment. Residents receive the opportunity to learn behavioral self-management as well as skills necessary to live independently within the home and the local community.
North Valley Services is governed by a dedicated Board of Directors consisting of Tehama and Glenn County residents who volunteer their time to ensure the mission is achieved.
“It is important to the people we serve to achieve their hopes and dreams. Therefore, our goal, from the Board of Directors to every employee in NVS, is to empower participants to achieve the highest degree of personal growth and success,” Jones said.