Community Options Launches Meaningful Day: Day Program Curriculum & Staff Guidebook to Support People with Disabilities in Day Programs
Princeton, NJ, June 17, 2015– Community Options, Inc. launched the book, Meaningful Day: Day Program Curriculum & Staff Guidebook, authored by Robert Stack and AnaMaria Herrera. The book and e-book will be available for purchase online at www.meaningfulday.org. All the proceeds from the book go directly towards supporting people with disabilities.
Meaningful Day, is the first hands-on manual for Direct Support Professionals working in day programs as well as residential services. Meaningful Day is the result of a programmatic vision for persons with significant disabilities who are not part of the supported employment paradigm. Community Options recognized that there were limited resources available to guide day program managers and staff on meaningful and dynamic activities. The quality of the day program was dependent on the creativity and commitment of the individual managing the program. This curriculum will fill the resource gap and set the standard for day program staff in developing meaningful and engaging activities, which will positively impact people with disabilities.
Meaningful Day was piloted in targeted Community Options’ day programs with much success. Community Options is confident the application of the ideas and methodologies provided in the guide will make a significant improvement in the quality of day programs, the engagement of program staff, and the overall satisfaction of individuals attending a truly meaningful day program.
For over 25 years, Community Options has developed housing and employment programs for people with disabilities. Community Options operates with a budget over $107 million and serves thousands of people with disabilities through 38 offices across 9 states. Providing advocacy assistance to empower people with disabilities, Community Options believes that all people –regardless of disability level – should live and work in the community with dignity, choice, and self-determination. A registered PVO with USAID, Community Options is also the pioneer of innovative programs for people with disabilities in the Middle East, Russia, and South America. Please visit our website at www.comop.org.