Resource Center for Independent Living says services doubled, seeks space for equipment loan program

Dion Wilson, executive director of the Resource Center for Independent Living, told the Osage County Commission on June 2 that the number of Osage County residents the group served last year "almost doubled" compared with the previous year, driven by growth across programs.

Wilson described the Anita Casey equipment-loan program as a major driver of that growth and said the agency loans durable medical equipment to Osage County residents free of charge. He said RCIL plans to add about 1,500 square feet to the back of its building to centralize the loan program, make equipment easier to view and allow staff to load devices into clients’ cars.

Wilson also highlighted a resurgence in home-ramp construction for residents who cannot safely leave their homes and noted that RCIL added staff and services including casework and outreach. He referenced an annual report and supporting pages he left with the county that contain additional data and 2025 highlights.

The director said long-time staff member Becky Brewer will retire in July after nearly 30 years with RCIL; Wilson asked the commission to note the retirement and the agency’s continuing need for local support.

Commissioners asked for copies of RCIL’s information for the county controller and clerk’s office and thanked Wilson for the presentation. No formal county action on funding was recorded during the presentation; Wilson indicated a funding request was included in the packet that county staff would review.

The county clerk and new county controller were identified as points of contact for any budgetary follow-up. The commission did not take a vote related to RCIL during the meeting. The commission next scheduled other agenda items and moved on.