Welcome to Blue River Services, Inc.

Blue River Services, Inc. (BRS) is a private, non-profit organization founded in 1959 by six families that believed that all people are capable of learning when given the opportunity and appropriate support services. With this guiding philosophy for more than 58 years, BRS has consistently expanded its services to meet the needs of community members and help people with disabilities and the general public overcome barriers to independence.

BRS strives to reach its motto of “People Serving People” by providing exceptional services for all ages, from infants to seniors, in all areas of life and levels of ability.  The agency offers services through 13 departments, and in fiscal year 2016, served more than 22,000 individuals in 32 Indiana counties.

Explore our website and see how we can serve you.

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News

Click here for current career opportunities at Blue River Servies, Inc.

Structured Family Caregiving Lunch Honors Residents and Caregivers in Summer Style

The annual Structured Family Caregiving Appreciation Luncheon, held June 15 at Southern Hills Church in Salem, was “a day at the beach.” With lots of sea shells, sun and activities, the afternoon honored the program’s 16 residents and their caregivers.

 Part of the Community Resources Department at Blue River Services, Inc., the program offers a unique approach to assisted living for adults with disabilities. With funding from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and Indiana’s Aged and Disabled Waiver, consumers are matched with caring, responsible families who welcome them into their home and provide daily structure in support of improving self-sufficiency.

This year’s resident of the year was Kenny Taylor, who won over staff with his “million-dollar smile” and “mischievous giggle.” Taylor also overcame many physical obstacles and continued to succeed in reaching his goals.

The householders, as the support families are called, also were recognized for their service to Blue River Services, Inc. and the people the agency serves. Debbie Byrd was awarded householder of the year for her 12 years of service and going above and beyond for her consumer, who is considered part of the family.

“Debbie involves the consumer that resides with her in every aspect of her family’s life,” said Tammy Seitz, Director of Community Resources. “This includes family vacations, church events, family reunions and birthday parties. Debbie is an amazing asset to Blue River Services, Inc. and her consumer.”

As everyone finished a beach picnic-inspired lunch provided by Shady Patch Farm, Murie Medlock, program manager, presented a video chronicling residents and their adventures throughout the past year.

Click here for current career opportunities at Blue River Servies, Inc.

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Now Hiring SGL Life Skills Instructors

We have several positions open for Supervised Group Living (SGL) Life Skills Instructors. Full- and part-time positions are available at Blue River Services group homes located in Corydon, Salem, Palmyra, New Albany, and Milltown. Second- and third-shift positions, as well as first, second and third weekend shifts are available. Blue River Services also offers “substitute” status in this position, in which you can work as needed, as available. Most shifts are weekday evenings and weekends, because residents are out in the community during the day, either working at jobs or attending day services at BRS workshops.

Each group home has up to seven adult residents with developmental disabilities living at the home. This is their home and in some cases has been their home for most of their adult life. Each home is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This is a great opportunity for college students to work outside their school schedule and medical students who need internship hours. No experience is necessary; training is provided. Must be eager to help others with a compassion for all individuals and a desire to be a positive role model and companion for residents. Examples of duties include assisting residents with grocery shopping, preparing meals and general housekeeping. Must be able to lift 50 lbs. Must possess an accredited high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver’s license. Drug testing required. Health benefits are available for full-time employees working 30 hours or more. Dental, vision, life, 401k and other benefits, including paid time off, are offered to employees working 20 hours or more in this position. BRS is an equal employment opportunity employer and a drug-free workplace.

For more information on specific openings at each home, please see below.

  • Corydon (McGrain and Summit View homes & Sub status) – Contact Tim at 812-738-4996
  • Salem (Oak) – Contact Bailey at 812-883-4852
  • Salem (Nichols) – Contact Holly at 812-883-1528
  • Palmyra – Contact Jamie at 812-596-1455
  • New Albany – Contact Barb at 812-734-4310
  • Milltown – Contact Eric at 812-365-2751

For a complete list of all current job openings and an application, please click on the “Careers” tab.

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Nichols Avenue Group Home Achieves Rare Cite-Free Survey

The staff at Blue River Services, Inc. Nichols Avenue Group Home in Salem have a lot to celebrate this year. The team accomplished a nearly impossible feat -- receiving a citation-free state survey.

According to the Indiana State Department of Health, there are hundreds of regulations a supervised group home must comply with, from documentation, medication administration, custodial care, and health and safety, to individual rights and responsibilities, confidentiality, environmental requirements, and resource availability.

“We have a long history of great surveys at this facility, but it is extremely rare to receive a citation free survey,” said Tim Beitzel, Director of Supervised Group Living. “This shows the exceptional quality of care that Blue River Services provides to their consumers.”

The Indiana State Department of Health, which is responsible for licensing Indiana health care facilities, also serves as the state survey agency for Medicare/Medicaid certification programs, such as group homes. A state surveyor conducts an onsite assessment annually to observe staff and consumers. Interviews with consumers also are held to discuss their level of participation in and choice of services, as well as outcomes.

“The annual recertification process is important,” said Beitzel, “because it holds us to the highest quality standards to provide supports to the individuals we serve.”

Nichols Group Home, operated by Blue River Services, Inc. under the Supervised Group Living program, has been serving adults with developmental disabilities since 1987.

Pictured Above: Nichols Group Home staff members are, from left, Tyra Gant, Stephanie Scifres, Holly Troncin, Carolyn “Susie” Robinson, Elizabeth Navarro-Johnson, and William “B.J.” Spencer, and seated, Deana Williams, left, and Robin Swartz.

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Lowell Norskov wins the Gold

Bringing Home the Gold

Summit View Group Home resident Lowell Norskov brought home gold in three events at the May 13 Special Olympics event held in Seymour, Indiana. Norskov competes in the long jump, 50-meter run and softball throw.

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Brs helps raise community awareness at Harrison County Prevent Child Abuse Event

At the April 27 Harrison County Prevent Child Abuse community awareness event are, from left, Heidi Waynescott, foster parent; Brad Fortner, Harrison County DCS Director; Heather Richard, PCA President and BRS Program Manager; Mike Kurz, foster parent; Julia Baylor, BRS Children’s Services Director; Otto Schalk, Harrison County Prosecutor; and Stephanie Rex, PCA Vice President and BRS District Coordinator.  The event, held in collaboration with Harrison County DCS, highlighted the importance of child abuse prevention efforts.

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Time Tracking