In celebrating individuals who extend their care beyond their kin, Takiah McCullough embodies the spirit of community support, aiding those with developmental disabilities in Multnomah County. A supportive housing specialist in the Department of County Human Services' Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) Division, McCullough is recognized for her work this March during Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, as reported by Multnomah County News.
Moving through life's ebbs and flows, McCullough has navigated her fair share of challenges. She began anew in Central Oregon in her mid-30s after parting ways with her children's father. "There was so much going on in my life over the years that it was tough," McCullough recounted to Multnomah County News. Despite the hurdles, she achieved milestones such as obtaining her bachelor's and master's degrees and becoming a homeowner, instilling a message of resilience.
But McCullough's involvement stretches beyond her journey. Her dedication towards her clients is ingrained in her day-to-day interactions, as she meets them in a variety of conditions, be it shelters or the streets, particularly during harsh weather. McCullough shared with Multnomah County News, "The best part is just seeing someone getting into a placement and not worrying about being unstable. That feeling of safety and security."
The services offered by the I/DD Division are extensive, including outreach for connecting to people with disabilities, determinations of service eligibility, and provision of case management. They also investigate allegations of abuse and help clients access rent assistance, social services, and transportation, essential for those like the 67,000 Oregonians living with developmental disabilities. McCullough's work, often with clients on Medicaid or Social Security disability insurance, is lifesaving, as she helps provide motel vouchers, assist them with housing, and secure mundane yet fundamental needs such as furniture and food.
