About Gompers…..

Founded in 1947, Gompers’ mission centers on developing innovative opportunities for people with disabilities. With a main campus in Phoenix and an employment services office in Glendale, our nonprofit organization serves approximately 350 adults and students with developmental disabilities in Phoenix and its surrounding communities.

Agency-Wide Amenities

Assistive Technology

Beginning in 2008, Gompers launched an agency-wide effort to understand how assistive technology (AT) can be used to increase independence for the individuals we serve. In the first phase of the initiative, SMART Boards and touch-screen computers were installed in the Private School classrooms, DTA program rooms and at Employment Services to allow individual and group educational activities in math, reading, money skills and much more. Beginning in 2013, our Assistive Technology Specialist trained leadership and front-line staff, and began evaluating students and members to determine if assistive technology would help improve their independence. Today, Gompers is educating agencies, parents and members how to advocate for necessary assistive technology and the training necessary to use it appropriately.

Transportation

Gompers’ large fleet of accessible vans are on Valley roadways throughout the week picking up students and program members between Deer Valley and Buckeye roads on the north and south, and from Tatum Boulevard on the east to Litchfield Road on the west. More than 40 specially equipped vans and other vehicles – piloted by drivers who have met standards set by the National Safety Council – provide the capacity to safely and reliably transport approximately 240 individuals to and from Gompers each day.

Programs

Gompers Private School

Established in 1973 and approved by the Arizona Department of Education, Gompers Private School is a K-12 special education school serving students ages five to 22 in a dynamic, caring environment that promotes each student’s education. Our teachers are certified by Arizona in Special Education and work creatively and tirelessly to teach students skills that build self-confidence and increase independence. While enhanced student/staff ratios are based on Individual Education Plan designations, there never are more than four students for every school staff member in our classrooms. In addition, Gompers offers a comprehensive team approach to its Occupational, Physical and Speech therapies, all provided by appropriately certified and licensed therapists. A registered nurse and a licensed nurse practitioner support the medical needs of our students.

Gompers Day Training for Adults (DTA)

DTA focuses on empowering individuals aged 18 and older by helping them build life skills while strengthening their social and community interaction and introducing them to volunteering opportunities. Our members are encouraged to express themselves while being supported by a staff assisting them in reaching their highest potential. DTA focuses on individualized skill-building in communication, self-care, community awareness, social development and money management. Individuals in Gompers DTA program may gain their first work experience in pre-vocational classes.

Gompers Employment Services

Gompers offers one of the finest employment training programs in the state, providing individuals with a variety of ability levels the opportunity to explore their interests in a supportive, mentoring environment that encourages growth with the ultimate goal of independent employment. Employment opportunities are based on the member’s abilities and desire.