About Person First, Inc.
A family-centered Medicaid Waiver provider built on dignity, choice, and the belief that the person always comes first.

Built on Dignity, Respect, and Person-Centered Care
Person First, Inc. was founded by Brian and Jennifer Swinehart, who built the organization on a foundation of dignity, respect, and true person-centered care. Their vision was simple yet powerful: to ensure that every person with developmental and intellectual special needs are supported in a way that honors their humanity, individuality, and right to a meaningful life. They believed deeply in partnering with families, recognizing that the best care happens when loved ones are actively involved and supported.
Following their retirement, Brian and Jennifer placed Person First in the hands of leadership who upholds their values, their family-centered model, and their commitment to delivering better, more compassionate care. Their legacy remains at the heart of our mission, vision, and values.
Contact Us →Why "Person First"?
Our name is our promise. We see the person before any label, assumption, or limitation. Every plan, every interaction, every decision begins with one question: What matters most to this person and their family?
That commitment shapes how we hire, how we train, and how we show up — every day.
Mission, Vision & Values
Our Mission
Our mission is to uphold the dignity and humanity of every individual we serve, from older adults to individuals with developmental and intellectual special needs. We reject outdated models of care by placing the person, not the system, at the center of every decision. By championing a model where each person’s voice, goals, and dreams lead the way. By partnering closely with families, we deliver compassionate, individualized support that empowers people to live meaningful, self-directed lives rooted in respect, independence, and true quality of life.
Our Vision
Our vision is a world where every person, from older adults to individuals with developmental and intellectual special needs, are empowered to live a self-directed life supported by dignity, respect, and meaningful choice. We envision care systems that honor the individual, elevate family partnership, and replace outdated models with compassionate, person-centered approaches, that truly enhance quality of life.
Our Values
- We value dignity — treating every person with respect and humanity.
- We value individuality — honoring each person’s goals, dreams, and choices.
- We value family — partnering closely with those who know their loved ones best, and recognizing that their insight, advocacy, and involvement guide the support we provide.
- We value empowerment — supporting meaningful, self‑directed lives.
- We value integrity — doing what is right, always.
- We value quality of life — creating opportunities for joy, purpose, and connection.
Accredited by The Joint Commission
This distinction reflects our commitment to high performance standards, safety, and quality support for the individuals and families we serve.
