LIFE (Learning, Inclusion, Fun & Empowerment) Mower County
LIFE is better together.

​Office Hours:
Monday - Thursday : 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday : CLOSED
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Advocacy, Information and Referral

Age Range:  All Ages
Contact:  Dawn Helgeson
507-473-4831 or [email protected]
Contact:  Jamey Helgeson
507-473-4832 or [email protected]
We would like to acknowledge The United Way of Mower County for their generous support of this program.

​View the current Program Guide.


Find Support and Resources

LIFE Mower County provides free advocacy services throughout the lifetime of an individual living with an intellectual and/or developmental disability.  We support both the individual with the disability and/or their family/guardians.  When you or a family member has an intellectual/developmental disability, finding the right supports and navigating the various service systems can be overwhelming!  We understand.  Rest assured, LIFE Mower County is here to help!  We provide supports throughout the lifespan for people of all ages and all ability levels. 

When you contact our office, our first priority will be learning more about your needs.  Then, we can discuss what services/supports might be the best options for you and your family.  If for any reason, LIFE cannot meet your needs, we will point you in the right direction and refer you to another agency that can.
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For Families of Infants/Toddlers

For many families, learning your child has special needs can be surprising, scary, and confusing.  We understand these feelings and can help by linking you with community resources and support, connecting you with other families who “get it”, and listening with compassion as most of our staff are parents, siblings, or extended family members of people with disabilities.
For Families of School Aged Children

Like any child, kids with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) spend their days going to school, developing friendships, and participating in fun activities.  Parents focus on ensuring their child gets high quality education and develops their independence and social skills.  Often, parents also enjoy the opportunity to connect with other families that share similar experiences.
​For Teens/Young Adults and Their Families

Now is the time for families to prepare for the transition from school into adulthood. What will your loved one do after high school? Where do they want to work?  Where will they live? What kind of care will they need and who will provide it? What friends and recreation activities will they do? This can be a very overwhelming time. We can help you through it by providing information, helping you navigate the various resources, and connecting you with families who have been there.
For Adults and Their Families
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Adults with I/DD want what everyone wants: independence, meaningful work, a comfortable home, fun activities, and good friends. LIFE Mower County helps individuals get the support and services they need to live the life they want. We also help families navigate the adult service system, including future planning, to ensure their loved one has the support they need when the parents are no longer available.
Looking for resources or support?
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LIFE Mower County is the hub of information regarding local resources and support in Mower county. We help families identify, connect with, navigate, and utilize community resources. We provide one-on-one consultation by phone, email, or in-person meetings, as well as offer workshops on various topics throughout the year.

Public Policy

Here you'll find the information you’ll need to advocate on all issues that are critical to the intellectual and developmental disability community:
  • Autistic Self Advocacy Network
  • Disability Hub MN
  • Disability Minnesota
  • Best Life Alliance
  • Minnesota Help
  • The Arc US Action Center
  • The Arc Minnesota Action Alert Network
  • Minnesota Council on Disability Public Policy
  • The Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities
  • ​Who Represents Me
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families contact LFE for information and personal support.  Advocates at LIFE have the experience and knowledge to help you. 
  • Community Engagement
  • Education
  • Employment
  • Government Benefits
  • Guardianship
  • Health Care Assistance
  • Housing
  • Planning Your Future
  • Master Pooled Trust
  • Self-Advocacy


© 2025 All Rights Reserved  |  ​​Privacy Policy
LIFE Mower County, ​401 2nd Avenue NE, Austin, MN 55912  |  ​507-433-8994  |  [email protected]

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