Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I get further information about specific EPI services?

A: Contact EPI's administrative office at 319-232-6671. A staff member will direct you to the appropriate person who can answer your questions.

Q: How can I apply for EPI services for people with disabilities?

A: Contact EPI and ask to speak with our Intake and Referral Specialist, Connie Lewis, about the service you want or need. EPI will arrange an intake appointment at your convenience.

Q: Who is eligible for EPI Community Services?

A: People with mental retardation, mental illness, or acquired brain injury, as well as families with children with special needs.

Q: How do I access funding for services for people with disabilities?

A: Funding may be accessed from a variety of sources.  Generally the best starting place is the Central Point of Coordination office in your county.

Q: Are staff members screened or are background checks done on staff members?

A: EPI recognizes the importance of supporting all the needs of the people we serve, including their personal safety and security. While the licensing regulations for the agency require screening and background checks, we consider it essential to the integrity of the agency. Before beginning work for EPI, an Iowa Criminal History/Dependant Adult and Child Abuse check is done. We also check driving records of all potential staff and require a post job offer physical and drug screening.

Q: What training do staff have?

A: People working in our Community Services program receive extensive training including adult, child and infant CPR, first aid, mandatory reporter of dependent adult abuse or neglect, Medication Manager and BRICKS.  New staff receive training within the first three months after beginning employment and on an on-going basis.

Q: Are there transportation options for helping people with disabilities get around the community?

A: People receiving services utilize public transportation whenever possible. Staff also provide transportation to doctor's appointments and recreational activities, shopping and errands.  Alternate transportation is arranged as necessary.

Q: Who plans support services for individuals served?

A: Using a Personal Outcomes Planning Process, individuals identify their ambitions, preferences, dreams, likes and dislikes, needs and desires.  The plan provided a snapshot of how the individual wants to live today and a blueprint of how to support him/her in the future.

Q: How can I find out more about EPI's Child Care Resource and Referral service?

A: You can access the Child Care Resource and Referral web site by visiting http://www.neiowachildcare.org

Additional questions may be directed to EPI's Intake and Referral Specialist, Connie Lewis, VIA E-mail at: connie.lewis@episervice.org; or VIA phone at 319-274-8209, x472.