This is a mid-step in the journey to independent living alternatives for adults with developmental disabilities (DD), allowing residents to have a roommate in a 2 bedroom apartment in a secure supported atmosphere. A resident assistant (RA) will be retained to live on-sight to support the residents. Some of the RA’s duties would include:

• Ensure safe returns from jobs or social events
• Assist with meal planning and grocery shopping
• Help with budgeting and bill paying
• Ensure residents are maintaining clean apartments
• Check that the residents are cooking safely and eating properly
• Help with planning group activities

Under the charter of this program, residents are responsible for the rent and parents are the support network for the RA. Parents provide a small stipend for the RA’s salary, cell phone, rent, etc.

Whether you see your child taking that next step to independence in the near future or within the next 2 or 3 years, the time to plan is now. This should be a natural transition and they should be given choices, just as their contemporaries. Join us at our meetings and see how you can help make this a reality for your family members.