Total Living Concept (TLC) is a private non-profit organization founded in 1982 originally for the purpose of providing homes and basic skills training for people with developmental disabilities. Three group homes were established in residential settings that were representative of other homes in the community. Nineteen individuals were supported in those homes.

Between 1986 and 1991 all three group homes were closed. People living in those homes were assisted to establish homes of their choosing in the community. Currently, we support about 30 individuals who live in homes they rent, lease, or own. All but 2 of those individuals live alone, or with roommates who are not supported by TLC.

Key Developments
In 1990, TLC began supporting people with disabilities to live in a home of their choosing within the South King County area and receive support based on their preferences and needs. By 1991, all of the people receiving services were living in this manner.

Beginning in 1991, in response to the growing number of people with disabilities who are un-served or underserved, TLC offered Community Guides to those who wanted to discover their interests and talents and receive assistance with the pursuit. We are part of the solution helping to figure what the possible options are and using the community as the main resource.

Our Personal Coordination services began in 1996. This service is designed for individuals and families who have a strong desire to manage their own personal care providers. The emphasis is on assisting people to create and maintain their own networks of support. Services received are based on specific needs and desires as described by the person and the family.

In April of 2004, due to changes in state funding, this style of service was transferred from an independent service and added to our list of available services under our supported living umbrella. Those people formerly receiving personal coordination services are still encouraged to maintain their unique style of managing their own supports, and now have the added resources of our organization available to them as the need arises.

Funding History
We receive funding through contracts with the Division of Developmental Disabilities, which is a part of the State of Washington's Department of Social and Health Services.

In 1985 TLC started a Bingo operation in an effort to supplement our state funding. The operation continued until the mid 1990's. In 1993, TLC began operation of a Roller Skating Rink as an additional means of supplementing our state funding. We operated the Roller Skating business until late 2003, when the business was sold.