Connections is an inclusion day habilitation program within the community. It provides a person-centered plan using community-based supports. Connections is a person-centered day program without walls. As the name suggests, the program has two fundamental concepts:

• It provides the individual the opportunity to form "connections" or links with the community
• It provides an alternative to traditional, center-based day and residental programs by being individualized and community-based

Connections begins by listening to the individual with a developmental disability and his or her circle of support. Trained facilitators develop a person-centered plan that explores that individual's goals, interests and desires. This plan forms the framework for the day program that is then tailored to meet each individual's needs.

Connections is centered on community experiences that help empower the individuals to achieve their goals. The program provides transportation and staff to help the individual access each opportunity. Sites in downtown Middletown and New Windsor are vital components of the program. The sites form the point of origin from which individuals can access different activities within the program.

Connections has formed alliances with various organizations and natural supports within the community. These "Community Connections" form a wide variety of truly inclusive experiences for the consumer. Just a sample of these "connections" are:

• Cornell Cooperative Extension
• Elant Senior Citizen Care
• Local horse farms
• Local animal shelters
• Local daycare centers
• The American Red Cross
• Local churches
• Small business enterprises

Our experiences are not limited to volunteering. The scope of opportunities is varied and flexible in order to meet the needs of each consumer. The person-centered plan is the core of the program and defines how the program is developed for each individual. Some of our other experiences include:

• Recreational activities in the community
• Local events
• Fitness and Health activities
• Links to local organizations and agencies
• Computer skills
• Literacy programs
• Cooking
• Daily living skills
• Socialization
• Photography

We have also recently developed programs during evenings and weekends to allow the consumers to be included in the activities of everday life.

Connections through these experiences aims at having every individual:

• Develop new skills and interests
• Develop relationships with peers
• Increase community integration and involvement
• Foster personal growth by enhancing the relationship between the individual and the community

Our primary philosophy is to include the community in the life of each and every consumer in a way that is meaningful to them and the community.

Connections is a program of the Family Empowerment Council, Inc.