Get Ready
Authentic living arrangement to further independence and growth with a focus on Wellness and Flourishing
Weekly Activities
Weekdays, participants join our community crew for experiences in the Ardmore and Haverford communities, as well as Philadelphia. Program directors consult with participating job seekers and families to plan effective placements according to work history, job interest/talents, and capabilities. Soft skills and relationship strategies are transferable to other experiences. Participants may gain experience using the public transportation system or ride shares.
Each weekend, we shop, perform household chores, and enjoy adventures together. Weekend activities may include a trip to Philadelphia historical sights, the movie theater, music venues, eating in local restaurants and farmer’s markets such as Suburban Square or Reading Terminal Market, sports in the park, hiking, visiting a museum, etc.
Independent Living
Participating Self Advocates are individuals with disabilities seeking an experience to live inter-dependently with others in a community-oriented setting. The Get Ready program operates at a 1:3/1:4 ratio of qualified staff mentors to participants. Coordination of housemate matches takes place with potential residents and program directors with the intention of creating complementary peers that live and work well together. Individuals can join us accessing waiver based services, school districts, or through private tuition. Our Carousel Connections’ team is dynamic with expertise in the fields of occupational therapy, nutrition, Wellness, behavior support, speech and language therapy/communication, and education. Team members join on a rotating shift basis with a live-in mentor available for emergency on-call staffing in the overnight hours. Trained mentors/coaches are positive role models throughout the experience.
Skill Development
Social skills, executive functioning skills, self-advocacy, and self-determination all must be practiced in authentic, real life situations. Mentors and peers assist individuals in the home and during the crew day to explore strategies for success (previewing, modeling, visual checklists, technology applications, look and match scenarios, “friendly reminders,” etc.). Using creative and flexible approaches, along with a commitment to person-centered support, we accomplish our goal of sharing individual talents. Participants must also shape expected demeanor and roles in the home, job, and community settings. At the Get Ready house, we customize stepping stones to match the journey!
A day in the life!
Enjoy a video of Get Ready House participants detailing what they do during a typical day in the life.