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                             MISSION STATEMENT                                    The purpose of Community Living Association is to involve community and family in promoting the highest quality of life for people with mental retardation and developmental disabilities by assisting them to be independent, self-confident and valued members of the community. 

Community Living Association is a private, nonprofit organization that works closely with other such agencies around the state.  We coordinate services funded by various State and Federal programs.  We employ over 250 people from Houlton and surrounding towns - all working to provide over 180 people with developmental disabilities the support services they need to be successful in contributing to the community. 

Support for Living and Working in the Community

Community Living Association provides services and support for individuals with developmental disabilities throughout the state of Maine.  With the support of the community, individuals can contribute to the community in many ways.  People with developmental disabilities, like other customers, patronize businesses and become loyal customers.  Community Living Association (CLA) clients hold jobs and pay taxes.  They get pleasure from contributing to society and achieving their personal work goals.  Our clients participate in leisure activities, church services, clubs and organizations.  The people CLA provides services for are just like everyone else.  They want to be successful, to be productive members of the community, to share good times with friends and family members and to be accepted by society.  The people we serve want the chance to live as normal a life as possible.

Sometimes people with disabilities are misunderstood or ignored, even feared. 

Here are some ways you can accommodate the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities:

     Support the diversity that is the United States
     Invite someone to join your club, organization or church activities
     Simplify written instructions and signs
     Use more pictures and symbols
     Provide adequate customer service assistance
     Provide training for your employees on how to assist people who have
           difficulty with communication
     Discuss diversity and tolerance with your family, friends, clergy and 
            co-workers
     Make physical changes in your store or workplace to provide access
            (ramps, doorways, bathrooms, etc.)
     Ask CLA for suggestions on how to open opportunities for involvement
            with people with developmental disabilities  

CLA is a member of Maine Association of Community Service Providers (MACSP).

CLA is also a member of ANCOR, a national network of providers offering quality support for people with disabilities.

Non-Discrimination Notice

“In accordance with Federal Law and USDA Policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability (not all prohibited bases apply to all programs).  To file a complaint of discrimination, write to: Peter Marcotte, Director of Human Resources, 45 School Street, Houlton, ME.  04730 or call toll free 1-866-343-4144 or locally at (207) 532-9446, extension 25.  CLA is an equal opportunity provider and employer."