Striding Towards Independence
What is meant by striding toward independence? Vulnerable populations require extra help to participate in mainstream American life. People with mental disabilities need more time to learn, a sheltered environment to practice newly learned skills, more job coaching, residential alternatives. People with physical disabilities, require assessment, therapy, adaptive devices such as hearing aids, wheel chairs, braces, splints. People with mental illness require ongoing therapy, medication, opportunities for social interaction, appropriate gathering places off the street, housing. Family members of vulnerable populations need occasional respite, guidance and support groups. The closer in proximity these services are to their residences, the more successful they can be.