About Us

LifeSpan...A Community Service is a 501c3, not-for-profit organization that has been helping its community for over 40 years. LifeSpan provides services in both Jackson and Hillsdale Counties to over 600 consumers each year.

Governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, and led by Executive Director Barb Freysinger. LifeSpan provides quality services and supports to people with or without disabilities of all ages.

LifeSpan's array of services include Residential homes, Respite care for children and adults (in-home and at the respite house for those 13 years and over), Job Development and coaching, and Community Living Support Services.

LifeSpan works to build community partnerships to encourage and strengthen the area in which persons served work, live, learn and play. Community partnerships also allow for a broader range of support in finding opportunities for the people LifeSpan serves.

All LifeSpan staff is specially trained to provide service not only in their assigned area but in others as needed. Further training opportunities are provided to encourage continuous learning and growth and to incorporate the principles of Gentle Teaching. In the early 1990's LifeSpan's Board of Directors adopted the principles of Gentle Teaching as the leading philosophy behind every LifeSpan operation. It has been threaded and woven into the basic fabric of the organization. It is reflected in every training and daily encounter. For a short introduction to the world of Gentle Teaching, please view:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=3MDR8JbhVKM

LifeSpan has been CARF Accredited for over a decade and continues to ensure quality programs and outcomes through the direction and guidance of the principles of CARF.