We Believe Every Life Has Unlimited Potential.
Empowered Living Services (ELS) is a Virginia-based provider of person-centered services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We exist to help individuals live full, self-directed lives in their communities.
Our Mission
"To empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live life on their own terms — with the support, dignity, and opportunity they deserve."
What We Stand For
Person-Centered
Every decision starts with the individual. Their goals, preferences, and voice guide everything we do.
Dignity & Respect
We treat every person we serve — and every person we work with — with the dignity and respect they deserve.
Growth & Independence
We believe in people's capacity to grow. We support individuals to build skills, expand their world, and achieve their goals.
Community Belonging
Real inclusion means being part of a community — not just present in it. We work to create genuine belonging.
Innovation & Excellence
We are committed to continuous improvement — in our services, our staff, and our outcomes for the people we support.
Compassionate Care
We show up with heart. The relationships we build with individuals and families are at the center of everything.
Our Story
Empowered Living Services was founded by Najmah Clarke with several years direct experience in Virginia's Medicaid waiver system — who saw firsthand what quality services could look like, and what was missing. ELS was built to fill that gap: a provider that leads with relationships, not paperwork.
We opened our Newport News location at 11747 Jefferson Ave in May 2023 and have been building our team and our community ever since. Our approach from day one has been the same: get to know each person, build a plan around their goals, and show up consistently.
Our Hampton location at 2236 Todds Lane opens October 26, 2026 — expanding access to Day Support across the Hampton Roads Peninsula. Referrals for both locations are open now.
ELS is affiliated with The Empowerment Network, a broader network of organizations established in 2015, committed to supporting individuals with mental health diagnoses and disabilities across Virginia. This relationship gives ELS access to shared resources, training, and a community of practice — while remaining focused on the individuals and families we serve directly.
Our Relationship with The Empowerment Network, LLC
Empowered Living Services operates under the umbrella of The Empowerment Network, LLC — a Virginia-based organization committed to building systems of support that empower individuals and communities. The Empowerment Network provides organizational infrastructure, oversight, and shared values that guide ELS's work. ELS maintains its own identity, leadership, and operational focus as a dedicated provider of ID/DD services.
Questions about The Empowerment Network, LLC? Contact us and we'll connect you with the right person.
Where We Are
Newport News
11747 Jefferson Ave., Suite 4C
Newport News, VA 23606
Hampton
2236 Todds Lane, Suite C
Hampton, VA 23666
Want to Learn More?
Whether you're a family exploring options, a support coordinator looking for a provider, or someone interested in joining our team — we'd love to connect.