Rock River Valley Self-Help Enterprises' mission is to provide quality habilitative programs and services that promote advocacy, empowerment, and the development of independent functioning skills of individuals with disabilities, which allows for maximum participation in the community.
Rock River Valley Self-Help Enterprises, Inc. (Self Help Enterprises) was incorporated on July 16, 1965. It originated in the basement of the Rock Falls Presbyterian Church with five physically disabled individuals. They made birdhouses and sold them in the community. The Rev. James Crangle, founder of the agency, gradually found other work for the individuals, and they were able to rent space in an old dairy on East Third Street. From there they moved to 609 West Third Street in Sterling. As the client population grew, this location became cramped, and it was difficult to provide all of the services that were required to meet the needs of our individuals. In 1979 Self Help was awarded a Housing and Urban Development grant to build its existing building. This space has been added onto three different times, and a recycling building has been erected at the edge of the west parking lot.
Throughout its history, Self Help has been driven to “Turn Challenges into Opportunities.” We serve individuals with disabilities by providing individualized and personalized plans regarding employment, residential services, community day services, early intervention programs, community-based events and home-based services.
Self Help is proud of our heritage and excited by the opportunity to continue to provide support to individuals with disabilities. It is our goal that, through these supports, Self Help can help each individual that we serve live their best, most purposeful life.
