OTTAWA FRIENDSHIP HOUSE
PROGRAMS

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SHELTERED WORK

     The Sheltered Work Program provides a variety of work, social and recreational opportunities to individuals.  The program helps prepare for work in the community, or extended work within the program.   Work projects include a variety of contract projects from area industries and businesses, as well as food service and maintenence jobs.   Jobs range from simple to complex, striving to have a variety of projects available for varying skill levels. Payday is every other week, and pay depends on the productivity of the individual.
     Besides developing work skills, the program strives to develop appropriate social skills through interaction with co-workers and supervisors. Recreational activities are made available to help provide a balanced program.   Follow along supports are available for persons who leave the program.
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DEVELOPMENTAL TRAINING

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     This program is designed to assist persons with developmental disabilities in acquiring, improving, and maintaining the work and living skills that allow them to pursue the greatest degree of self sufficiency and independence possible in their lives.   Developmental Training is designed to teach and improve basic self-help skills, community living skills, social skills, as well as communication and productive work skills.
     Educational exercises in language, writing, money skills, and personal living skills are part of individualized plans focused on continued growth and independence. Individuals also acquire and improve positive work skills and attitudes through involvement in the workshop and food service programs. Continued social development is promoted through ongoing recreational and community involvement programs. The program is a service provider for families enrolled in the Home Based Services program of the Illinois Department of Human Services.
   

COMMUNITY EMPLOYMENT

     This program helps individuals train for, locate, obtain and maintain employment of one's choice with community employers. The program will assess an individual's strengths, needs and desires, and assist him or her in obtaining employment. The program also assists the individual in obtaining other supports needed to maintain employment, such as transportation and health services.
     Once employed, we will provide job training, follow up, crisis intervention, and coordinate other services needed to succeed in the community.   The program provides ongoing contact with the employer and employee in order to maintain a successful placement.
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RESIDENTIAL

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     The Residential Program is located at our site south of Ottawa.   It provides a home like atmosphere for adults 18 years of age and older. The Residential Program is for semi-independent adults, who provide for many of their own daily living requirements. The program strives to maximize the individuals' independence through guidance, socialization, recreation, and ongoing linkage to the community.   
     The residents live four persons to each home, one person per bedroom.   Each home has a common living room, kitchen and bathrooms.  Although the program does not have 24 hour live in supervision, a residential aide lives on the grounds.   After hours support, training, and recreation is provided by residential staff.   All residents must participate in day programming, or in community programming or employment.
     For many, the program provides a bridge to eventual independent living.   For these people, and others, the program provides supports and services to help individuals maintain successful independent community living.   

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