Residential Services

The Institute’s residential services in Massachusetts offer a spectrum of options that range from specialized small Group Homes that are designed to meet the needs of people with intense and comprehensive needs.

 
In addition we offer individualized shared living or an Individualized Service Option (ISO) for those with an interest in establishing a close connection to a companion or family. For those who prefer greater autonomy and who need limited support, supervised independent living in their own home may be preferred.

Community-Based Day Supports

After young adults leave the world of school, several interesting options await them, whether they continue to live at home, move to a group home or another kind of supported living arrangement. The Institute in Massachusetts's offers, in addition to competitive employment support, three possibilities, each designed to meet the individual’s unique needs, interests and goals.

STRIVES provides people with an opportunity for work-focused day activities and part-time supported employment while they continue to benefit from a range of clinical and educational supports.

Community-based, enrichment support options MILESTONES and NAVIGATOR are situated in central Fitchburg and serve as a busy and productive daytime base for individuals who are interested in increasing their adaptive, academic, and work skills, and maintaining a stable group of friends.

FOCUS is a very specialized community-based day program for individuals who have sensory challenges such as deafness, blindness or deaf-blindness caused by Rubella syndrome, congenital problems or developmental illness. 

Vocational Supports

The Institute many years ago became impressed by the number of competent people receiving services from The Department of Developmental Services who were not given the opportunity of working. What was missing? Job Path is the outcome of analyzing what was needed to help people prepare for, find, and keep good jobs, and of ongoing collaboration with the Department of Developmental  Services.