New "Connections Center" Opening
For several months, Balance has been developing a new opportunity for people with developmental disabilities in Ozaukee County. This new program is called the "Connections Center." It is designed as a place to go to meet friends and participate in educational and entertainment activities. The center is located in our new offices in Saukville.
Balance serves over 30 individuals who live in apartments in the community and require on-going assistance to make connections and manage their homes. There are many others served through the care management organization who live with their families and may benefit from this program as well. We are working to develop this affordable and meaningful service for those who are underserved and at risk due to a lack of program options.
There is currently no known long term funding source for this type of a service, but we continue to work within the Family Care model of service to seek additional support. We will also work in partnership with the Ozaukee County Volunteer Center to seek volunteer support for the center. At the center, we will be providing high-speed internet access on two computers. With the help of private donations we have purchased a media center, which includes a large-screen monitor, a DVD player and a Wii video game system that can be used for education and training programs as well as entertainment. We are using recycled computers obtained at no cost through Entech (Empowering Nonprofits with Technology) and software from Techsoup (technology provider for nonprofits). A small kitchenette is a part of the center. The local Ozaukee County Arc has donated $1,500 to help start the center.
As a part of this center Balance will be establishing an advisory board of self-advocates who will assist with the management of the center. They will help design and implement programs and activities that are offered.
The Connections Center will open in May. For further information, please contact us at 262-268-6811.
