Our History
Utilizing our collective power, DAC provides a number of direct and community services to support independent living and full community access while fostering attitudes, policies, and environments of fairness, freedom, self-determination, and power over our own lives.
In 1990 DAC was a program called North Idaho CIL and a part of Stepping Stones, Inc. Federal law and diverging issues meant we had to form a new nonprofit to keep our grant funds. The necessary documents were filled out and signed to become a new company and a 501c3 nonprofit. On May 1, 1993 DAC officially began business with a federal grant of about $100,000 and a public transit system that was struggling. But with grass roots determination and collaborative leadership, DAC grew from the little grant project it was to what it is today. In 1993, DAC had a budget of about $150,000. Recently, it paid out more than 4 million for disability programs, owns three office buildings in Moscow, Lewiston and Post Falls and rents space in Spokane to serve the entire Inland Northwest.
Former President Bryon Branting
In February 2010, one of DAC’s great friends, Bryon Branting, left this world after a long battle with a resistant infection. Bryon goes back to the beginnings of DAC and before. Bryon was the first president of the DAC board of directors. While DAC had other presidents, Bryon stayed on the board, lending his common sense and calm, supportive demeanor to our meetings. While others came and went, Bryon stayed and became president again until his death. Thanks Bryon for all you did for people with a disability. Peace be with you!
Former Self Directed Care Manager Steve Corr
On June 1st, 2025, DAC lost a cherished colleague and dear friend – Steve Corr. Steve joined the DAC family on September 12, 2005, as an Independent Living Advocate. Over the years, he took on leadership roles with dedication and heart, managing our 1st Choice Self Directed Care program and, more recently, the Veteran Directed Care Program. A passionate supporter of independent living, Steve was a constant advocate for empowering people with disabilities to make their own choices and lead self-directed lives. His compassion, humor, and his love of the Denver Broncos, touched the lives of many. Steve will be deeply missed and will remain a key part of DAC’s history.
