Community Connections

Community Connections - It is the philosophy of Michiana Resources, Inc. that normalization is critical to the needs of its consumers and an integral part of the agency's mission. The intent of the Community Connection Program is to provide consumers with inclusionary activities in the community so that they may feel welcomed and accepted in their environment. While they become familiar with various community activities, resources, and projects, they simultaneously learn the joy of public service and reciprocity. Having always been recipients of services, many consumers have never had the opportunity to "give back." Community Connections also helps to raise public awareness of the abilities of Michiana Resources' clients.

While Community Connections may be purely recreational in nature; we also try to meet at least some of the following criteria:

Activities that are ongoing in nature such as classes or meetings so that participants have an opportunity to develop friendships and build natural supports.
Activities that afford clients the opportunity to provide a service or become a part of a community effort.
Activities that are a part of a sequential learning plan in which classroom components can be used to support and enhance community involvement.
Clients are asked to identify community activities they enjoy or would like to learn. Staff then plan these connections based on the expressed interests of those participating.