In 1974, a group of dedicated Bozeman teachers and parents set out to form a social group that would not only change the lives of their children with disabilities but also help to progress Bozeman’s community for decades to come. These parents were brought together by their shared concern for their children with disabilities—what would they do after high school graduation? For those living with disabilities, the prospect of life post-high school is a daunting thing, and in Bozeman, there was a lack of support.
Rather than succumbing to their anxieties, Bozeman families rallied together, forming Reach Inc. Fast forward 50 years, and Reach Inc. has brought support and community to Bozeman in ways the families in 1974 could have only dreamed of.
Over the years, Reach Inc. has grown from an after-school group for socialization so much that now, Reach provides jobs, transportation, housing, and endless opportunities to every one of its clients.
Reach Inc. is not a school; it is a community that aims to support its clients every step of the way. They emphasize that they are not telling any of their clients what to do—Reach Inc. is in the business of freedom and support, letting anxieties of the future go and focusing on making the most of today. For one, that might look like getting a job at one of their partners, Town Pump; for others, it may look like utilizing their transportation services to grocery shop.
As education has progressed, schools have seen a significant influx in “inclusive learning”—allowing all students to learn together, regardless of their learning levels. Students living with disabilities have benefited from this change greatly; now, we as a community need to ensure we are offering this same inclusion not only in the workforce but in all aspects of our lives. Reach Inc. has worked tirelessly to ensure everyone in the Gallatin Valley lives in an inclusive community.
What started as a compassionate effort has blossomed and enriched hundreds of clients’ lives.
