Click on Ontario ARC's Resource Manual for additional information about the agency's programs and services updated 5/24/2010 . |
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| More information about Family Planning is available in Planning for the Future: A Guide for Families and Friends of People with Developmental Disabilities from New York State's Developmental Disabilities Planning Council. |
Adaptive Technologies
Ontario ARC offers assistance to families and individuals through its Service Coordination department by gaining access to innovative designs, modifications and equipment to promote a person's safety and independence at home and in the community. There are two types of adaptive technologies, environmental modifications and adaptive equipment. Environmental modifications include alterations to doorways, bathrooms and adding ramps to make a home more easily accessible. Adaptive equipment makes communication and activities of daily living such as eating, bathing, dressing and ambulation easier for individuals who have a disability.
Art Classes
Ontario ARC offers opportunities for art exploration through a variety of projects. The agency has art classes that provide different mediums of expression, such as painting, sketching, photography and sculpture. Ontario ARC's Art Specialist directs the small group sessions and provides assistance, as needed.
College Experience
Individuals participating in the College Experience are between the ages 18 and 26. They are actively involved in campus life at Finger Lakes Community College in Canandaigua, or Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva. Students utilize all aspects of the College Experience, from athletic facilities to cafeterias to actual classes.
Individuals will be based out of a classroom on campus. The college campus provides a learning environment that promotes a person's independence and community involvement. The program is designed to explore employment interests or day service opportunities through internships at local businesses in the community. In addition, the program concentrates on improving social and communication skills and expand and enhance life skills such as money management, community independence and self-advocacy.
Community Experience
Modeled after Ontario ARC's successful College Experience Program, the Community Experience Program incorporates community based learning in areas such as job interviewing, using public transportation, banking and learning work expectations. Individuals have the opportunity to tour businesses, participate in internships and engage in job try-outs in a variety of new work experiences. Many members of the Community Experience need more intense supports and life skills training than those individuals participating in the college program. There is no age limit to this program. Most situations are triaged and can be referred to a Social Worker or other staff to address during business hours.
Community Education
Ontario ARC offers informational presentations on disability-related topics designed for individuals, families and providers. Information is presented by experts in the field, on topics related to transition, future planning, supplemental needs, trusts and benefits. In addition, a variety of topics will be provided that support the family unit such as sibling issues, educational advocacy and balancing the role of parent and person. This service is available to any person in the community who has a documented developmental disability or one within their family. Look for Ontario ARC's Educational Series promotions and flyers.
Community Job Coaching and Employment
When an individual secures a job in the community, job coaching is provided. Job coaching is one-on-one training in a particular job. A job coach will accompany a participant to their workplace, and teach them how to do their job. Job coaches work along side the new employee to insure they understand the requirements of the job, and are successful in performing the tasks associated with the job. An individual's job coach can reinforce the policies and procedures of the work site. Job coaching is an ongoing service offered to individuals with disabilities who receive vocational services from Ontario ARC.
Crisis Intervention
Ontario ARC's Crisis Intervention service provides 24-hour, seven-days-a-week assistance by telephone for people with developmental disabilities and their families. Trained on-call staff will provide assistance in finding necessary community supports, as well as help with developing a plan of action for serious problems that arise during non-business hours.
Day Habilitation
Day Habilitation services are designed to provide training in many areas of daily life, such as housekeeping, nutrition, developing relationships, personal health care, communicating with others and safety skills. These services are provided during weekday hours at Ontario ARC's program sites throughout the county and in the community. The purpose of the program is to increase personal independence and community involvement.
Family Reimbursement
Caring for a family member with developmental disabilities often involves added expenses. Ontario ARC offers reimbursement for goods and services to families of individuals with developmental disabilities living at home. Examples of such costs might include continence products, recreational opportunities, camps, special adaptive equipment and other goods and services tailored to meet an individual's needs.
Food Service Training
Food service training is available to individuals who are interested in the food service industry. Ontario ARC's full service cafeteria, Sully's, allows a true food service experience. The hands-on training includes food prep, dishwashing, set-up and tear down, customer service and cash register operation. Once a participant has mastered these areas, they may explore a community work site that the agency has partnered with for a job try-out.
Guardianship
In New York State when a person reaches 18 years of age, they are assumed to be legally competent and can manage their own affairs, regardless of their disability. For individuals who are not capable of making decisions for themselves, Ontario ARC is able to provide assistance with the legal process which designates an individual, family or organization to act on behalf of those who are unable to manage their personal affairs without assistance.
When there is no family or friends to serve as guardian, Ontario ARC is also able to act as a Corporate Guardian with the assistance from NYSARC, an organization of parents, friends and volunteers. Once assigned Corporate Guardianship by NYSARC, Ontario ARC will make decisions in regards to health care, housing, day programming and other related issues for an individual.
Home and Community Skills Training
This service provides in-home assistance and training for people who reside on their own, with family or friends. It enables people to live as independently as possible within the community, by teaching a variety of daily living skills. Training can be provided for meal preparation, cleaning, shopping, personal finances, grooming, healthcare, safety in the community and use of public transportation.
Horticulture
Ontario ARC provides opportunities to experience the benefits of gardening, in the agency's large greenhouse and outdoor gardens. The Horticultural Specialist leads the program, which includes lessons on plant care, responsibility for garden maintenance and a chance to create floral crafts and arrangements. This is a program that is both relaxing and awakens all of the senses.
Information and Referral
Ontario ARC offers many programs and services designed to meet a wide variety of needs. The agency's Intake Coordinator meets with interested individuals and families to explain the programs and services offered through Ontario ARC. The Intake Coordinator provides tours of programs and answers questions regarding all Ontario ARC services and supports. Once decisions have been made regarding what program(s) best meets an individual's needs, the Intake Coordinator will assist the individual in gaining easy access to any program or service for which an individual qualifies. She will also help in identifying services outside of Ontario ARC that may better meet an individual's needs and provide contact information for that service. All inquires for programs and services go to Inake Coordinator.
Job Placement
Job placement services are available to people who are interested in working in the community in a competitive job. The agency's trained, professional staff will review an individual's vocational plan and assist them in finding employment in the area of their choice. This service assists the individual from the beginning of a job search to securing employment. Job preparation, such as mock interviews, job shadowing and resume writing are all a part of this service and it is available to individuals with disabilities who receive vocational services from Ontario ARC.
Medicaid Service Coordination (MSC)
(Case Management)
Ontario ARC's Service Coordinators assist individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Service Coordinators can access programs and services that best meet participants' needs, from housing and employment to recreational activities and benefits counseling.
Service Coordinators can go to appointments with individuals when they are dealing with important issues, for example with doctors or lawyers. A Service Coordinator can call providers in the community to access information in order to help a person plan for the future such as what entitlements, benefits or vocational programs to access. Service Coordinators advocate for better services and supports on behalf of an individual and intervene when a person feels they need help making their needs understood.
Music Therapy
Music Therapy offers instrumental and vocal instruction, tailored to the people's musical interests and abilities. The Music Therapist works with groups, providing opportunities to work on communication, social skills, teamwork and muscle coordination, in a fun musical setting. Individuals are assessed to determine the types of music activities that will provide them with the best therapeutic benefit.
Nursing
Nursing services include a review of nursing care needs by a registered professional nurse, with ongoing supports provided as needed for individuals receiving residential or day services at Ontario ARC.
Nutrition
Nutritional services are available through a Registered Dietician. These services include nutritional need assessments, special diet reviews and individual education and monitoring for weight control.
Pet Therapy
Pet Therapy utilizes trained animals and handlers to achieve specific physical, social, cognitive, and emotional goals with participants. Ontario ARC offers Pet Therapy to foster relaxation, social interactions and responsibility for animal care. Licensed Pet Therapy dogs visit the agency's day services site, under the supervision of their trainer. They provide small group sessions, in which people experience the unconditional affection from the gentle pets, groom the animals and have social time with friends.
Physical Therapy
Physical Therapy services benefit people who have a physical disability identified at birth or have a debilitating injury or illness. An assessment of specific or generalized concerns about muscle strength, flexibility or injury is made with corresponding recommendations for follow-up treatment. Ongoing exercise programs after physical therapy are developed for the individual as well. This service is provided to those persons receiving residential or day services at Ontario ARC.
Play Therapy
Play Therapy is a form of counseling available to children. It provides children the opportunity to work through their emotions, using appropriate toys for expression. Acceptable alternatives for undesirable behaviors are explored and encouraged and information is provided which helps the child identify what he or she is experiencing. The therapy is provided by an Applied Behavioral Specialist or Licensed Clinical Social Workers who have received special training in this area.
Pre-Vocational Training
Pre-Vocational services are activities specified in a person's individualized service plan. These services prepare an individual for employment, but do not actually help find a person a job. The activities include: training on following directions, helping a person to acquire appropriate work habits, assisting in adjusting to production and social demands of the workplace, learning about job production and performance requirements, the use of public transportation, and the appropriate use of job related facilities such as lounge areas, cafeterias and rest rooms.
Psychology - Testing, Assessment, Behavior Management and Support
Psychological services help children and adults adjust to situations that affect their everyday life. Individuals with developmental disabilities who have behavioral issues, eating disorders, anxieties, fears or other difficulties may be helped through psychological counseling services. Psychological testing to determine eligibility for OMRDD services is also available, as well as behavior plan development and behavior management.
Recreation Services
Recreation services provide a variety of athletic, cultural and social events that offer enjoyment, while providing an opportunity to get to know new people and learn leisure time skills. Events such as bingo, bowling, swimming, dinner dances, Red Wings and Buffalo Bills games are available to children, teens, and adults year round. These events are supervised by trained staff and transportation is usually provided.
Twice per month children's recreation programs are hosted on Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for children 5 to 16 years of age. Activities include music, arts, crafts, swimming, and trips to area attractions, like the Strong Children's Museum of Play and the Roseland Water Park. Teens also have group activities every month that range from horseback riding to Martial Arts instruction.
Rehabilitation Counseling
Rehabilitation Counseling provides guidance and support in vocational services and helps people with disabilities develop the skills they need to work in the community. Assistance is provided in identifying vocational interests and in exploring employment options. Rehabilitation Counselors will help people to acquire the skills they need to find work in their area of interest. Training is provided in interview techniques, in worker and supervisory relationships and appropriate behavior at the work place, as well as many other work-related topics. Rehabilitation counseling can also provide assistance to a person who is having job difficulties.
Residential Services
Residential Services are available in many Ontario County communities for adults with developmental disabilities who are over the age of 18. Ontario ARC's homes include supervised apartments for one or two individuals and family-like group houses. They range in size from 5 to 12 people, and many single bedrooms are available. The agency offers both all male/all female houses, and co-ed group homes. Trained staff members are available 24-hours a day to assist residents with daily life skills and provide supervision. Residents actively participate in their communities and either work or attend day services and are encouraged to be as independent as possible.
Respite Reimbursement
Families who have a family member with developmental disabilities may need opportunities for caregiver relief. Ontario ARC offers cash reimbursement to families to pay for in-home care for individuals with developmental disabilities. A family may need caregiver relief to tend to personal business, or time to care for the needs of other family members.
School To Adult Transition Assistance
Ontario ARC's Transition Coordinator provides assistance to families, school personnel and other service providers by identifying adult services and supports available through Ontario ARC. The agency's Transition Coordinator is available to meet with interested families and students and to attend school meetings to clearly describe the services and supports that are obtainable through Ontario ARC. The Transition Coordinator will also provide tours of all Ontario ARC programs and field calls regarding questions about services and supports the agency has to offer.
Senior Services
Senior Services provides a variety of programs and services designed to meet the unique needs of aging adults 50 and older. Ontario ARC provides staff and family training on aging and end-of-life care issues as well.
Maintaining a healthy life style and a good quality of life, is the agency's goal for seniors. These services may include environmental assessments, wellness counseling, information and referral, nursing and nutritional assessment and recreational activities. This service is available to individuals with developmental disabilities who live in the community, as well as those who receive day habilitation, residential or pre-vocational services at Ontario ARC.
Social Work - Family, Individual, Group Counseling
This service provides assessment and counseling offered by Licensed Clinical Social Workers, which help individuals and families enhance their coping capabilities and deal with issues that arise as a result of relationships, feelings or their disability. Social Workers will meet individually with people to talk through problems. Group counseling on areas such as women's issues, grief, loss and sexuality education is also available.
Special Olympics
Ontario ARC provides Special Olympics training clubs and teams in basketball, bowling and softball. The athletes practice on a regular basis during the sports season and compete against other area Special Olympic athletes. All coaches are trained and certified by the Special Olympics program. Special Olympics and United Way support these activities and there is no cost to participate.
Transportation
Finger Lakes Bus Service provides transportation to Ontario ARC consumers, allowing them to get to and from work, day services and to social and recreation events. This service is provided to individuals receiving prevocational, residential, and day habilitation at Ontario ARC. Finger Lakes Bus Service also provides contracted transportation services to other agencies for groups, and children and adults needing transportation to medical appointments, schools, other agencies or programs and for day trips.
Vocational Assessment
A unique approach using actual community work sites as opposed to the traditional paper and pencil testing is used by Ontario ARC to evaluate an individual's work interests, values, skills, learning styles, strengths, and needs. Not only does utilizing community work sites allow the agency to develop a comprehensive view of the individual and their needs, but it allows assistance in developing the best career path for an individual.
Volunteer Opportunities
Community volunteer activities are available to enable people to contribute their skills to local service organizations. Ontario ARC offers a wide range of volunteer placements that put people's talents to use,
such as delivering lunch to local seniors, shredding paper for animal bedding, assisting in nursing home recreation programs and local day care activities. These volunteer assignments often become the basis for people developing ongoing connections in their community
Work Center Job Coaching and Training
Job coaching and training is offered to people who are referred to Abbey Industries' Work Center. This service is for people who are not ready to work a job in the community, and would like to develop their work skills. Individuals are linked with a Vocational Coordinator and Production Supervisor who will assist them in attaining the goals they set for themselves in their vocational plan. Participants are taught how to successfully perform the job they have been assigned, while developing their work ethic.
Work Study
Work-study experiences are available to students enrolled in area schools. This service is provided in conjunction with a student's school day. Depending on the student's schedule, hours in the Work Center may range anywhere from two hours per day to an entire day. A vocational plan is devised and the student becomes part of the Work Center work force. Specific areas in the plan are worked on each day to enhance the student's work skills and give them a work experience in a true production environment.
Eligibility requirements vary by program. Please contact Central Intake Coordinator JoEllen Meath at 585-394-7500.