Our program is dedicated to assisting adults with developmental disabilities in obtaining new levels of independence. We focus on providing skills that directly translate to community employment, independent living, and personal growth.
Autism Certified Center
At Greater Communities Resource Center, we take pride in being an Autism Certified Center through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This certification reflects our commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. As an Autism Certified Center, we adhere to the highest standards of autism support and ensure that our programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals on the autism spectrum.
Our staff, known as Day Program Specialists, are highly trained and dedicated professionals. They are autism certified through IBCCES, demonstrating their proficiency in working with individuals on the autism spectrum. This certification signifies their deep understanding of the unique challenges and strengths associated with autism and their ability to provide individualized support and guidance.
Learn more about the Autism Certification
Program Goals
Our program has several key goals:
- Improve the quality of life for our participants by helping them develop new skills, engage in meaningful activities, and form positive relationships.
- Focus on social skills development, including making eye contact, initiating conversations, and understanding nonverbal cues.
- Enhance communication skills, such as expressive language, receptive language, and alternative communication methods.
- Develop basic skills necessary for successful daily living, such as following routines, using money, and ordering a meal.
We provide opportunities for participants to practice and apply these skills through shoebox tasks and simulated work, ensuring they are prepared for real-life situations. Activities of daily living, including personal hygiene, meal preparation, and housekeeping, are also taught and trained.
Best Practices – PAES Lab
In addition to our core curriculum, the Adult Day Program features the PAES (Practical Assessment Exploration System) Lab. This lab provides a simulated work environment where participants can develop pre-employment skills in a safe and supportive setting. Individualized training plans are created based on each participant’s strengths, interests, and abilities, using the principles of person-centered planning. In the PAES lab, participants engage in job-related tasks, such as using a cash register, sorting mail, and packaging items, preparing them for real-life work experiences.
Learn more about the PAES Lab
Best Practices – Facility
At GCRC, we have created a facility equipped with all the essentials for practicing real-world skills. Our mock-living and mock-workplace spaces provide participants with the opportunity to practice skills with assistance in a supportive environment. This prepares them for transitioning to adaptive vocational environments like our GSE program, ensuring a seamless transition from a more supported environment to the workplace.
In addition to our autism certification, our facility is designed to meet the specific needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. We have created a supportive and sensory-friendly environment that fosters comfort, engagement, and learning. Our spaces are carefully designed to accommodate different learning styles and provide a safe and inclusive setting for participants to thrive.
Learn more about our Facility
Best Practices – The TEACCH Model
At the Adult Day Program, we utilize the TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication-handicapped Children) model and positive teaching techniques to improve the quality of life for our participants. The TEACCH model is an evidence-based approach that uses structured teaching methods to support individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. By focusing on the strengths and abilities of each individual, we aim to help them achieve independence and enhance their overall quality of life.
To ensure highly individualized instruction, we combine the structured environment promoted in the TEACCH Program with the adaptive instruction of Applied Behavioral Analysis. Our program features visual schedules, defined spaces, and adaptive workspaces, creating an engaging environment where individuals work with highly skilled staff on new pivotal skills. These skills encompass communication, vocational readiness, social behavior, and life skills.
Furthermore, our program emphasizes training participants in utilizing community resources. Participants learn how to access and use local resources such as libraries, community centers, museums, events, parades, and recreational facilities. Community safety training is also a crucial part of the program, teaching participants skills to identify trustworthy people and situations and respond to emergencies. These activities support participants’ confidence, security, and successful integration into the community.
Learn more about the TEACCH Model
Enrolling
If you or your loved one is interested in our Day Program and the range of services we offer, we invite you to reach out to us. Our dedicated team is available to assist you in navigating the enrollment process, discussing individual needs, and developing a personalized plan that aligns with your goals and aspirations.
It’s important to note that eligibility for our Day Program involves meeting specific criteria established by the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). If you or your loved one is not currently receiving DDD services, we recommend visiting the DDD eligibility webpage to explore the requirements and learn how to apply.
At Graham County Rehabilitation Center, we are committed to providing exceptional care and fostering personal growth, independence, and overall well-being for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Join us at the Adult Day Program at Graham County Rehabilitation Center and be part of a compassionate team that is making a positive difference in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. Together, we can empower individuals, celebrate their strengths, and support their journey towards greater independence and community integration.
Learn more about Enrolling