The Need
High school graduation is an exciting time, representing the transition of a child to a young adult. Universities are visited, career choices determined, and a new independence from family begins.
For a student with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), the path is much different. Aging out of the public-school transition program at 21 begins a time of loss and uncertainty. While their classmates pursue additional education and job opportunities, most young men and women with IDD simply go home. Although home may be a warm and loving environment, the availability of stimulating engagement is very limited. This inherent isolation frequently results in a loss of communication and social skills.
The transition is difficult for parents as well. Caring for their child full-time while they work or help with their aging parents is exceptionally difficult. There is also a financial burden. Whereas part-time jobs and student loans allow non-disabled graduates to pursue post-secondary education, these are not options for individuals with IDD. Some adults with IDD do receive public-funded benefits, but many do not. And although benefits are helpful, they only provide approximately 25% of the funds required for a quality program.
Meeting the Need
Out of the need for an impactful day program, CPPC was created by concerned parents and compassionate community supporters. To guard against social isolation, and to continue the progress made at CPPC in March of 2020 we launched @CPPConline to meet the needs of our Teammates who are too vulnerable to return in person. This robust online curriculum was so well received we began sharing it with individuals not enrolled in our program. @CPPConline is supported with weekly phone calls, small-group Zooms, and virtual music therapy. For our Teammates(clients) living in group homes we provide the supplies required to participate in online lessons. Although we resumed in person services in June, we continue to offer @CPPConline for Teammates who have yet to return. Unfortunately, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission does not pay for virtual programing, resulting in a significant loss of revenue despite the increase in services.
We welcome an opportunity to tell you more about Connecting Point!
