CENTER FOR ADAPTIVE LEARNING

 

A Key to Individual Potential for Adults with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities

Individual daily living goals are set for  each client. Medications, appointments,  and finances are monitored by case managers. The focus is on the basics of clean apartment living, which includes: personal grooming;  cooking and menu planning; budgeting;  personal safety; and basic maintenance. In addition, clients are taught time management, goal setting and the use of public transportation.

The goals of counseling are to help the clients understand and come to terms with their challenges, to learn to identify their feelings and communicate them in a positive way, to overcome the fear of failure and to gain self-respect.

Clients are guided to develop short term and long term vocational plans. Training is   provided in fundamental skills such as job search strategies; interviewing, application completion and good attitudes. Vocational counselors work closely with employers and other agencies in the community to develop appropriate placements for CAL clients.

Many of the adults who come to the Center do not learn as well through the traditional modes of reading, writing, and lectures. In art instruction, students are encouraged to develop their visual, sensory and aesthetic sensibilities. The classes use a multimedia approach including computer graphics, and jewelry making, as well as drawing and painting.

CAL promotes healthy living through nutrition education, and exercise groups. Healthy leisure activities and local team sports are encouraged.

Medical Services are supported at CAL by a Medical Associate who schedules clients’ medical appointments and accompanies them to the appointments. Clients’ medications are monitored until independent medication management is achieved.

All clients receive assistance in determining their eligibility for Social Security and Housing subsidy benefits. Clients receiving benefits are monitored to ensure that income is maintained within approved benefit guidelines.

Our Accounting Department develops clients' budgets, monitors and processes each client's monthly income by way of individual personal accounts. All clients have discretionary spending money every week.  With greater independence and competence, clients may eventually have a checkbook, ATM card, or savings account, and manage their own money, but this is not the norm for our clients.

CAL’s curriculum focuses on real life skills achievements. Clients fill gaps in their ability to manage adult life.