For over 30 years, Ability360, Arizona’s largest independent living center, based out of Phoenix, has offered and promoted programs designed to empower people with disabilities to take personal responsibility so that they may achieve or continue independent lifestyles within the community. Over the years, Ability360 has been proactive about strategically positioning itself to pursue, and ultimately succeed under partnerships with the health care sector, primarily Medicaid managed care organizations (MCOs).

This Aging Today feature article, part of a series that highlights members of n4a’s Trailblazer Learning Collaborative for Advanced Business Acumen, walks readers through Ability360’s journey of growth and expansion, charting its course to increasing health care integration. Read on to hear how one pioneering organization has committed itself to innovation and adaptability, and how it has channeled these pursuits into improving care and quality of life for its consumers, and carving out a prized place for itself amongs community-based health care partners.

Ability360: Fostering Growth, While Preserving a Service Culture of Dignity and Respect