April 29, 2026 | Press release.pdf

Organizations earning SHIFT’s highest level of recognition complete comprehensive education requirements and undergo a rigorous evaluation process. SHIFT Accredited organizations demonstrate their ability to help people live as independently as possible through the successful adoption of technology.

About SHIFT

SHIFT is an online education and accreditation platform that is advancing and standardizing Technology First best practices and programming. State agencies and provider organizations utilize the term “Technology First” to describe an approach to services that embrace the application of technology as the first consideration in support planning. This means people needing long-term support services can live their most independent, productive lives possible with the support of trained staff paired with modern benefits of technology.

State agencies and provider organizations are utilizing this term to describe the consideration of technology solutions before defaulting to a more traditional in-person service model. A Technology First approach to services is dependent on a person-centered approach being firmly established among supporters and within an organization’s or agency’s culture.

About Community Options, Inc.

Community Options promotes dignity, independence, and inclusion for people with significant disabilities through personalized, community-based services. They offer a range of support including residential programs, employment initiatives, and specialized care. Their approach emphasizes personcentered planning, collaboration, and flexible, high-quality support.

Purpose of SHIFT Accreditation

With a person-centered approach to technology solutions, we are all working toward the same goal – to help people live the lives they want to live. SHIFT partners with organizations during the accreditation process – serving as a guide and resource for the successful adoption, implementation and sustainability of technology. With sound systems and processes in place, we know that technology is highly effective in helping people increase independence and achieve outcomes.

It is no surprise that organizations continue to struggle with a diminishing workforce and significant budget limitations. In order for organizations to continue providing quality services, they must adapt to these challenging circumstances. By adopting innovative approaches and developing alternate service models – like those offered by technology – organizations are better prepared to face these challenges successfully.

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Community Options Recognized as Technology First Organization

PRINCETON, NJ — May 15, 2026 — Community Options, a leading national nonprofit supporting people with disabilities, has earned Technology First Accreditation from Technology First SHIFT, an education and accreditation platform advancing best practices in technology-based supports.

Community Options develops housing and employment supports for over 7,000 individuals with disabilities and their families across 12 states.

“Earning this accreditation reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation and to expanding opportunities,” said Paul Groch, Vice President of IT at Community Options. “By integrating technology into our services, we are strengthening independence, improving outcomes and ensuring we continue to meet the evolving needs of the people and families we support.”

Technology First SHIFT’s highest level of accreditation is awarded to organizations that complete comprehensive education and a rigorous evaluation process, demonstrating the effective use of technology in person-centered services.

“The organization has shown a clear understanding that enabling technology can play a meaningful role in increasing independence, autonomy and overall quality of life for the people supported,” said Constance Harrington, SHIFT Director of Education and Accreditation.

This recognition highlights Community Options’ focus on integrating technology into service planning to improve outcomes and support more independent living.

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About Community Options, Inc.:
For over 35 years, Community Options has developed housing and employment support for people with disabilities – supporting thousands of people from over 60 offices across 12 states. Community Options provides advocacy assistance to empower people with disabilities because all people – regardless of ability level – should live and work in the community with dignity, choice and self-determination. For more information, please visit our website: www.comop.org and follow us on social media on Facebook, Instagram and X.