Integrated Services Network Support Services Brokerage (ISN) was established in 2001, celebrating its 25th anniversary in October 2026! When ISN began, it served 112 individuals experiencing intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD) in the community. Now, ISN is proud to serve more than 500 individuals across 8 Oregon counties, creating a community of belonging through compassionate connection.
Chief Operations Officer Jill Sorensen has been with ISN since the very beginning. “I was with ISN from the start in 2001. I believe my original ISN employee number was 001,” she said.
Stephanie Stoker, ISN Program Director, was also involved in the early stages of ISN, joining the team 19 years ago. “As a Personal Agent during the early years, I was part of the team that enrolled the last of the individuals off of the waitlist for services that they had been on for a very long time,” she said. “It was very exciting and satisfying to be able to be at the beginning of people obtaining access to services.”
Joan Falardeau began as a Personal Agent, serving Marion and Polk Counties. “I had the privilege of learning a whole new system and a way of providing services that had never been provided in Oregon,” she said. Now serving as Oregon Needs Assessor Coordinator, she reflected on how in the early days, it was not always easy. “We spent many years down at the State Capitol, advocating for [I/DD] services not to be on the legislative chopping block.”
Over the past 25 years, funding has been a persistent challenge ISN has had to overcome – constantly evolving and uncertain from one year to the next. “It has been important to be flexible, be able to pivot when needed,” said Stephanie, “and to be a strong voice of advocacy to ensure that services continued and were focused on the individual’s wants and needs with their voice always at the front of everything we do.”
“As I look toward the next 25 years, my hope for ISN is that it continues to be a trusted source of support and advocacy in the I/DD community.”
-Jill Sorensen, COO
ISN is committed to creating a community of support, offering hope and kinship for people who experience I/DD. “I have seen those that we serve discover their voice and live the life that they want to live,” said Stephanie. The support of ISN staff is one large part of why individuals served by ISN have the tools and know-how to advocate for themselves and thrive. “ISN staff are now and have always been a strong advocate for those that we serve,” added Stephanie.
“Individuals accessing I/DD services and their families have a long and successful history of being strong advocates for meaningful change,” said Jill. “ISN has played a role in this by providing technical information and support that enhances knowledge and understanding, empowering people to make informed decisions, strengthen self-determination, and help families feel confident that their loved ones can pursue the life they envision for themselves.”
In keeping with their mission of assuring a VOICE and a CHOICE for adults who experience intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, ISN encourages feedback from and listens to the voices of the people they serve, their families and providers. “ISN is an excellent listener!” said Jill. “We want to provide the best services possible. When loneliness was identified as a top concern, ISN worked diligently to develop Friendship Connection events to increase opportunities for people to connect.”
Amidst the challenges ISN has faced over 25 years, there have been exciting, joyful and memorable moments since the beginning. From talking with individuals about their hopes, dreams and wishes for their future, to singing and dancing at POG conferences and events, staff coming together to cook meals, and bonding at retreats, there are many fond memories that have been made throughout the years.
“One of my favorite memories of ISN was family members and friends of staff volunteering alongside us at the events we hosted – my own children included!” said Jill. “ISN has such a strong sense of community and connection at its core. Part of ISN’s legacy will always be helping to create welcoming, inclusive spaces.”
25 years later, ISN is still strongly committed to walking alongside those experiencing I/DD. “We have great leadership and the goal continues to be focused on advocating for the individuals that we serve to have access to person-centered services and resources,” said Joan. “Our individuals are encouraged to set goals and dream. My hope is that our individuals achieve their hopes, dreams and goals.”
On a personal note, Joan herself has felt uplifted and supported in her career with ISN. “I continue to love my job after all these years, and ISN has been supportive throughout my career. I strongly believe in the work that we do, and I hope that ISN continues to grow, be strong advocates, and provide the support that people deserve.”
“As I look toward the next 25 years, my hope for ISN is that it continues to be a trusted source of support and advocacy in the I/DD community,” said Jill. “Every individual should have equitable access to the resources, opportunities, and person-centered supports they need. I hope ISN continues to live its mission to strengthen the voices and choices of the people it serves.”
