Frequently Asked Questions

To create a path from disability to capability by providing exceptional programs so people of all ages can work, play, learn, achieve personal goals, and live meaningful lives.

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FAQ's
  1. Who do you provide services for?
    Answer: We have a variety of programs for children and adults. The “programs” tab provides a description for each of our programs.
  2. Does my family member qualify for service?
    Answer: If your family member was diagnosed with a developmental disability prior to the age of 18, then they may qualify for programs. You can find out more about eligibility criteria and download an application for services on the web site for the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) http://apd.myflorida.com.
  3. My family member needs service, what do I do?
    Answer: If they are already a client of APD, contact your support coordinator to arrange your services.  If they are not, determine whether or not your family member qualifies for funding for services under the Agency for Persons with Disabilities criteria. If they do, you need to fill out an application and begin working with the Agency for Persons with Disabilities. 
  4. My family member has been put on the waiting list, but we need service now.
    Answer: Horizons’ offers private pay options for our programs. The contact person on each page under the “Programs” tab can provide more information.
  5. My family member is not eligible for service, but we need service. What can we do?
    Answer: Horizons’ offers private pay options for our programs. The contact person on each page under the “Programs” tab can provide more information.
  6. My family member would like to find and keep a job, but has had some problems with employment. What can we do?
    Answer: Your family member may be eligible for programs under Vocational Rehabilitation. Contact the local office at (850)833-9114 for more information.
  7. My family member is not eligible for Vocational Rehabilitation but still needs help. What can we do?
    Answer: Horizons’ offers private pay options for our programs. The contact person on each page under the “Programs” tab can provide more information.
  8. Where do you offer services?
    Answer: We offer programs in the Okaloosa County and parts of Santa Rosa and Walton counties.” 
  9. My family member gets social security disability income and/or Supplemental Security Income. Will getting services affect this income?
    Answer: Getting services does not affect Social Security benefits.  However, if you find a job with the help of Employment Services, your income may affect your payments.  Supported Employment will help you find ways to minimize the impact. If you receive Residential Habilitation services the Agency for Persons with Disabilities will use each individual’s social security to offset the cost of Group Home living.  In most cases, the payment would then go directly to the group home provider. 
  10. What does it take to be a staff person at Horizons?
    Answer: All staff are background screened with local, federal, FBI, and Department of Motor Vehicle checks. In addition, all services require that staff meet certain qualifications. Most require at least one year of experience. Refer to the “Employment” tab for more information.  Horizons provides necessary training after an employee is hired.
  11. I can’t pay my electric bill. Can you help?
    Answer: No, we are not an agency that pays for individual utility bills.
  12. Do you serve people who are mentally ill? What about other disabilities such as Traumatic Brain Injury, ADHD, or Learning Disabilities?
    Answer: Only those who are dually diagnosed with a developmental disability or those who are referred through Vocational Rehabilitation are eligible for funding. If not qualified through Vocational Rehabilitation, we do have private pay options. Contact the person under the “programs â��� Supported Employment” tab for more information.
  13. Are all services delivered at your facility?
    Answer: No, we deliver services at the client’s job, at locations around the community, and in the client’s home. Each service specifies where services can be delivered.
  14. I was sent to Horizons for fingerprints but don’t know why.
    Answer: Horizons is the contractor who collects fingerprints for background screenings being done for any number of reasons, such as real estate licenses, teachers, insurance agents, other providers, bankers, etc. This is not part of our mission but does help us accomplish our mission by bringing in additional revenue.
  15. Do you provide transportation?
    Answer: We do provide transportation to and from some services. Our drivers all meet the stringent standards of our insurance company in order to transport people with disabilities. Contact the person listed under the “Programs” tab for more information.
For more information contact:

Horizons of Okaloosa County
850-863-1530

Developmental Disabilities information courtesy of UCP of Central Florida
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