Mainstream is a non-residential, consumer-driven independent living resource center for persons with disabilities. Mainstream operates with conviction that those of us with disabilities have the right and responsibility to make choices, to control our lives and to participate fully and equally in our community. Mainstream offers the following services:

Connecting people with disabilities with one another for mutual support through support groups and peer networks is the mission of the Peer Support Services. The cross-disability support groups are based on consumer and community interests, and are not therapy groups. (A qualified facilitator attends each meeting to assist you and address any concerns that you may have.)

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ADVOCACY:

Helping you remove barriers to independence and integration with resources, information, and expert advice as you plan your strategy and achieve your goals. Support is available for both individual and systemic advocacy issues. Mainstream also helps you find others who have encountered similar barriers so that together you can attack those problems. There is strength in numbers!

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Training to help you increase your independence, including training on disability rights, laws, regulations, benefits, and advocacy strategies are just a few of the topics available to you. A broad range of trainings based upon consumer input are held regularly for people with disabilities, family members and members of the community.

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Answers to many of your questions about access, independence and other related topics can be found at your fingertips. Mainstream's Information and Referral database contains hundreds of entries so as to provide precise and complete information in response to your requests. A loan library is also available with numerous books, videos and other vital materials to keep you informed about issues of importance. Referrals to other service providers and resources are available to help you secure the information or services you need.

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JOB PLACEMENT:

Assistance with all aspects of employment from job search to job placement follow-up is available through the "Projects With Industry" program. The Employment Specialist will assist you in exploring your options for employment. The program provides classes in job search, interviewing and resume writing techniques; a "Job Hunt Club" for job seekers; and a job placement service. Follow-up support is provided to assist you with any problems that may arise after employment begins.

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The Ramp Program provides access to and from home for people with mobility impairments. Mainstream coordinates a ramp program with the Southwestern Bell Telephone Pioneers and the City of Little Rock. Ramps are built at no charge to persons with disabilities and the elderly. To qualify, you must reside within the city limits of Little Rock and meet the income guidelines.

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Mainstream is now an authorized voter registration site. Anyone needing to register to vote or to make a name or address change and who lives in Pulaski county, may do so at our office during normal business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or during trainings and other events held at Mainstream.

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