We help make independent living attainable and accessible for adults with Autism/IDD and older adults with age-related needs. We build the people, skills, technology, community spaces, and support systems that independence requires.
Our Mission
Bridging the gap between support and real-world independence
Resources Needed for Independence (RNFI) brings together the people, places, and practical tools that make independence possible, for the individuals we serve and for the families and caregivers who support them. Our work spans independent living, caregiver support, workforce development, technology adoption, and rural healthcare access.
What We Do
Program Focus Areas
Independent Living
Making independent living more attainable and accessible for adults with Autism/IDD and seniors
Senior Technology Support
Helping seniors and caregivers use practical technology and non-technology supports to improve safety, independence, communication, healthcare access, and connection at home and in the community.
Workforce Development
Building workforce pathways that prepare students, volunteers, and early career professionals for practical roles in assistive technology, digital health, home and community-based services, and health and human services
Technology Adoption for Home & Community Care
Improving how technology is selected, adapted, and used in home and community-based services, so tools are not merely introduced but actually improve independence, safety, access, confidence, and quality of life.
Rural Healthcare Access
Expanding rural access to digital health, remote support, and technology-enabled community care by combining practical training, community-based demonstration, workforce development, and person-centered implementation.
Community Partnerships
Stronger together
We collaborate with providers, schools, and community organizations to:
Expand Caregiver Capacity
Giving caregivers real relief through respite-aligned programs and events, connections to resources, and ongoing support that reduces stress and builds confidence.
Learning Lab & Training Center
Hosting partner pilots, demos, tours, and hands-on simulations where families, students, and professionals can see what works before bringing it home or into practice.
Where the Work Happens
Center for learning and independence
Pebblebrook Farms Living & Learning Center
Our flagship campus and RNFI's simulated living lab. Isa's Barn recreates real-world home conditions where participants practice daily living skills, families try assistive technology before bringing it home, and students and volunteers train in a true-to-life setting.
Visit Our Campus →Workforce Training Site
We are planning a second simulated lab and workforce training site in Vance county NC to expand hands-on training for students, volunteers, and future direct support professionals, and to bring technology adoption support closer to families in Vance County and surrounding communities.
Insights
Use. Adapt. Opt Out.
Most technology programs ask, “How do we get people to use this?” We start with a different question. Read the white paper, follow our blog, and join our newsletter for program updates and new resources.
Why Independence Matters
Too often, individuals are forced to choose between safety and independence. We believe independence should be supported, not restricted.
By bringing together practical supports, community spaces, a skilled rural workforce, and technology that works in daily life, RNI creates pathways where people can live with greater confidence, dignity, and autonomy.