A groundbreaking ceremony was held at noon today for a new building for Hilltoppers, Inc. in Crossville. The new location will be on Duer Court. It will be named “The Jeanene Houston Administrative Offices and Day Center” in honor of Houston who has been with Hilltoppers for 45 years.

Hilltoppers is currently located on Sweeney Drive near the VF Mall.

They are a non-profit agency that provides supports and services to adults with intellectual and other specific disabilities promoting health, independence and employment to achieve success and a full life. Hilltoppers, Inc. has been in business since 1975.

Their mission is to promote each person’s identity, autonomy, affiliation, attainment, safeguards, rights, health and wellness.

Their philosophy is that persons with intellectual disabilities have the same needs, hopes, desires and feelings common to all people. They are entitled to full benefits of citizenship, privileges, opportunities and responsibilities.

Hilltoppers core support services includes:

SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT (EMPLOYMENT SERVICES): Exploration, discovery, job development and placement, job coaching, job readiness, vocational training, follow along and transportation.

DAY SERVICES: Adult and senior day care, developmental training, cognitive learning skills, daily living skills, multi-media activities, arts and crafts, motor skills development, sensory skills, music activities, independent living, pre vocational training, community awareness and participation, special events celebrations, community integration and transportation.

RESIDENTIAL SERVICES: Group living, supported living, nursing, medical residential, family model, personal assistance, respite and transportation.

SOCIAL SERVICES: Health and medical management, intake, representative payee services, case management and transportation.

SENIOR SERVICES (HOME MATTERS, CHOICES): Personal care attendant, homemaker services, adult day care, in home respite, CLS-residential and transportation.

(left to right – Crossville Mayor James Mayberry, Jeanene Houston and Cumberland County Mayor Allen Foster)