Chris Felts has been working to help individuals with disabilities for over 30 years, and his connection to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities runs deep. His step-sister, Whitney, has cerebral palsy, and even before Whitney was born, Chris's father introduced his family to a life serving others. "When I was 14 years old, we had 3 gentlemen with disabilities living with us as part of our family. So we bring a unique perspective to this service; we've lived it."
Chris has managed group homes for disabled adults, kids and the elderly. Before that, he wrote programs for local Community Service Boards in Virginia, expanding mental and behavioral health services to the public. In 2013, Chris and his dad, Jerry along with Jerry’s wife, Jean, started Felts Supports for Living in Galax, VA, to help people license their homes through the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. For Chris, going to work is like an extension of home. "My sister works here, my son works here, my dad and step-mom are still involved in the company. We are a family-run agency."
The Felts agency also offers training and support to home providers. Whether individuals need a visit from a nurse or physical therapy, Felts Supports for Living provides those connections as well as creating connections within families that allow individuals to feel loved and valued.
Chris is always thrilled to match individuals with families and see them living their best lives. And the Felts Sponsored Residential program is life-changing on both sides. "Our folks have such a positive disposition, it makes you want to be around them. When I see what they accomplish, it brings me joy. They've done stuff I've never done! They go on cruises, to Disneyland, run in 5Ks, one individual went to Alaska with his family...and the best part is they formulate friendships and become ingrained in their community."
According to Chris, the most important aspect of working with individuals with disabilities is trust. "Building trust is essential because our folks have been through so much, they may have moved around a lot or been through a lot of different staff. When you have that trust, they become more at ease and they feel like they belong. And everybody deserves to feel like they belong."
Chris feels strongly about expanding Felts Supports for Living in order to provide more programs and opportunities for individuals to live what he calls "a life like ours," and he's dedicated to his mission. "I feel empowered to help them succeed in whatever they want to do. They deserve to live a life with respect and dignity that is happy, healthy and safe."
