Community Residential Services

Arc of Onondaga’s Community Residential Services Program strives to ensure that the people we serve are living in a home - not just a house - with the opportunity to mature, grow and learn the skills necessary for successful living in the community. Trained staff will support and assist each individual to become integrated into his or her community, develop support systems with non-disabled individuals and grow to his or her highest potential. The program promotes the 3IP philosophy of individualization, inclusion, independence and productivity. It is our intent to make a lifetime commitment to individuals who live in our homes, if that is what the person desires and if we can continue to effectively meet their needs.

Arc of Onondaga currently maintains 22 certified residential sites in the area and continually develops new homes and locations.

All homes and supervised apartments within the Residential Program may be considered transitional in nature as residents are encouraged to live in settings allowing for the highest level of independence attainable, while providing the appropriate supervision and assistance. Therefore, staffing patterns are based on the needs of the residents at each site. All sites have a Residence Coordinator who is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the home and supervises the Skills Instructors (direct care workers) assigned to his or her particular site. Trained relief Skills Instructors are utilized to cover the leave time of regular staff. Services provided by staff may include, but are not limited to, the following: life skills training, self-care, community awareness, nutritional management, socialization, recreation, transportation, and general support and advocacy.

Arc of Onondaga provides each resident with room and board, in addition to the Residential Habilitation Services. Bedrooms are either single or double occupancy and fully furnished with a bed, dresser, nightstand, and closet space. Every effort will be made for a resident to have his or her own bedroom. Individuals are encouraged to personalize their bedrooms and bring items from home or purchase personal stereos, radios, TVs, etc. Three nutritionally balanced meals per day are provided and individuals are included in meal planning and preparation as much as possible. All menus are reviewed by a registered dietician, and when needed, special diets are developed. Staff are trained regarding these diets and in addition, a nurse monitors the implementation of special diets. Snacks are also available unless prohibited by dietary restrictions.

Leisure-time activities will be encouraged and assistance provided as needed. Each month an activity calendar is planned at each site with input from the residents. The phone, TV, stereo and recreational equipment in general living areas of the residence will be accessible to all. An individual's religious preferences will be respected and every effort will be made to allow a person to participate to the extent desired in his or her chosen place of worship.

The Residential Division views each consumer as an adult who possesses, to the greatest extent possible, the same rights and privileges as any other adult. Arc of Onondaga’s Community Residential Program provides a smoke-free environment for our residents.

For more information on our Community Residential Services, please contact Karen O'Hara, Director of Community Residential Services, at 315.476.7441, ext. 136 or kohara@arcon.org.

Resources
Download the Community Residential Services Handbook (PDF, 108k) a guide for family members and care providers.