Core Values

• To maintain a safe, healthy, and productive working and learning environment.

• To promote the overall growth and development of each individual that enrolls in the programs and services offered through our agency.

• To provide education and training that assists in the development of opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

• To maintain sound fiscal management practices that will allow for the continuation of services into the next century.

• To promote the awareness of public policy issues related to services to individuals with disabilities.

• To comply with all applicable local, state, and federal statutes to operate as a community based not-for-profit facility.

• To collaborate with other service providers as necessary to achieve client-centered goals.

• To provide early childhood and family support services, personal, social, and community services, transportation services, lunch services,  organizational employment services, and community placement supported employment services to eligible individuals.

Our History

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. Reverend James Crangle, founder of the agency, gradually found other work and they were able to rent space in an old dairy on East Third Street, and from there, 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 need of our individuals. In 1979, Self Help was awarded a HUD grant to build its existing building. This space has been added on to 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 employment, residential services, community day services, early intervention programs, community-based events, and home-based services. Our individualized and personal plans help those with disabilities live their best, most purposeful lives. Self Help is proud of our heritage and excited by the opportunity to continue to provide supports 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.