SIL offers a variety of individual programs, services, and supports to develop and enhance skills needed to address barriers to community living. All programs are based on identified needs and are highly individualized. While some services may have a nominal fee, the majority are free.
Equipment Program:
The equipment program provides individuals with disabilities new or gently used items such as walkers, wheelchairs, canes, crutches, bedside commodes, shower chairs, incontinence supplies, and more. The goal is to help individuals who are not able to purchase or obtain equipment through their health insurance. A physician’s prescription must be provided. Recipients must be able to arrange for items to be picked up and returned. Equipment is available on a first come, first served basis. SIL accepts donations of new or gently used equipment. More information on this program is available under the Equipment Program site.
Independent Living Skills (ILS) Evaluation:
An ILS evaluation assesses the consumers’ needs and abilities in order to live an independent, self-directed lifestyle. The evaluation helps staff and consumers identify areas to develop and strengthen, in order to increase their ability to participate in community life.
Independent Living Skills Training (ILST):
ILST helps consumers learn skills needed to maintain an independent lifestyle. Sessions are conducted one-on-one and in small groups on such topics as:
- self-awareness
- communications
- problem-solving
- money management
- budgeting
- meal preparation
- planning
- social skills
- relationships
These sessions are tailored to the individual needs and abilities of the consumer. ILST is paramount in allowing consumers to gain maximum control over their lives.
SIL’s ILST Lab includes computer stations and a mock apartment in which hands-on skills such as laundry, meal preparation, and housekeeping can be enhanced.
Information and Referral:
SIL staff provide crucial, up-to-date information on a variety of disability related topics and community living issues. Staff help problem solve and provide access to accurate information and community resources. Examples include information on adaptive equipment, transportation, accessible housing, benefit maintenance, and community resources.
Leadership Academy:
SIL offers an eight (8) week course designed to help persons with disabilities gain skills needed to participate on community boards of directors, committees, and taskforces. The programs incorporate a series of small group learning sessions followed by hands-on internship experiences. SIL strongly believes that persons with disabilities need to be “at the table” when issues impacting their lives are being addressed.
Nursing Home Transition/Relocation:
As a provider for Ohio’s HOME Choice and Success Project programs, SIL staff assist program participants to seamlessly transition from a facility (nursing home, hospital, or institution) back into the community.
SIL staff work closely with individuals to help locate housing, work through the waiver application process, obtain personal documents, securing furniture and household items, and so much more.
Once a HOME Choice consumer relocates, SIL can provide additional Community Support Coaching (CSC) and Independent Living Skills Training (ILST), both of which are approved services under the HOME Choice demonstration program.
Peer Support:
Peer Support/Consulting
SIL staff and trained volunteers with disabilities, provides support services to persons with disabilities, living successfully in the community. These vital support services teach individuals about options and choice. By providing options, information, encouragement, and support, consumers are better equipped to make informed decision on issues impacting their lives. It is not about doing everything yourself, but about making one’s own choices.
Peer Support Groups
Peer support groups are an opportunity for individuals with disabilities to learn from and support each other. Guest speakers are brought in periodically to present on meaningful topics.
Personal Care Assistance:
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) contracts with SIL to manage the consumer-driven personal care assistance (PCA) program. This program gives eligible individuals with disabilities the opportunity to employ and manage their own personal care assistants; and will reimburse the consumers with a predetermined hourly rate for a set number of hours per week. Priority is given to those who are employed, seeking employment, or in training. SIL serves the following counties in Ohio for the PCA Program: Ashtabula, Columbiana, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Mahoning, Portage, Stark, Summit, Trumbull, and Wayne.
Youth Transition:
SIL offers individual and small group learning session for youth with disabilities, youth ages 14-24, gain skills to transition to life after high school.