How We Serve

The mission of ALS in the Heartland is to provide the highest quality of support and care for ALS patients, their caregivers and families. We strive to:

Enhance the quality of life for all people affected by ALS
Heighten community awareness of this devastating disease
Strengthen public and legislative support in the fight against ALS

Our Services

Professional consultation by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in-home or via telephone and e-mail
Consultation can include, but is not limited to, one-on-one support, education, and/or therapy. The agency’s Patient Services Director is also a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, offering The Grief Recovery Outreach Program and Helping Children Deal With Loss support systems.

Respite Care Voucher Program
Balancing the emotional and physical needs of caregivers is an ongoing challenge.
Respite care is intended to provide a safe environment for the patient while the caregiver addresses personal needs and daily responsibilities. Respite can relieve stress and prevent caregiver burnout.

Any ALS patient who resides in Nebraska and western Iowa, and who is registered with ALS in the Heartland, is eligible to apply for the Respite Care Voucher Program. ALS in the Heartland provides payment to a professional home care agency or individual for respite care pending available funds. Register for the Respite Program

Equipment Loan Program
We loan various equipment at no charge, such as wheelchairs, communication devices, shower/tub chairs and walkers.  We also have access to other community resources that loan equipment. Click here to view the equipment available for loan. You can also Download Equipment Request form.

Information and education
Our agency has a variety of appropriate information available, as well referrals to numerous community resources.

Community Support Gatherings
Our Support Groups are open to the public and attended mostly by patients, their families and friends. Guest speakers from the community share information
on topics like physical and occupational therapies, speech devices and wheelchairs. Group members are encouraged to share any concerns or questions. For locations, dates and times of support gatherings, check the ALS in the Heartland calendar.

Referrals to relevant ALS Medical Clinics
ALS in the Heartland has a good working relationship with ALS medical clinics throughout the area, and can assist patients in scheduling appointments, etc.

Volunteers for companionship, respite, and assistance with household errands or chores
Our agency has a team of volunteers who are willing to help patient families with everything from yard work to building a ramp for easier accessibility to their place of residence.

Advocacy and research
This includes a partnership with the World’s largest ALS specific research facility, ALS Therapeutic Development Institute.