Our Story

Our mission is to maximize the quality of life for seniors and people with disabilities. We promote self-respect and self-determination through equal access and equal opportunity to empower our consumers to live as independently as they are able.

If you or someone you love is looking for more independence despite age or ability, please contact us to learn more about how we can help.

How it all started

Handicap Awareness and Support League (HASL) began as a grassroots, community-based movement in Grants Pass, Oregon in 1986.  In the beginning HASL was supported through individual donations and fundraising efforts, and relied heavily on the generosity of our dedicated volunteers.

Currently, we are funded through a discretionary grant from the Department of Human Services, under the Rehabilitation Services Act. We also receive funding from the Oregon Department of Vocational Rehabilitation. Our services are provided to consumers in Jackson and Josephine counties free of charge. We rely on the generosity of our community, as state and federal funds provide only a portion of our needs.

Today the HASL serves seniors and people with disabilities as an Oregon non-profit organization. HASL is governed by a hard-working board of directors, the majority of which experience a disability of some kind. We serve Josephine and Jackson counties in Southern Oregon.