Community Living Associations

Community Living Associations are organizations designed to provide a healthy and supportive environment for people with developmental disabilities. Found in most medium and large cities in the United States, community living associations work with community organizations and family members to promote work opportunities, emotional support and relationship building for individuals with developmental disabilities. Some Community Living Associations specialize in individuals with mental illness, however these organizations are usually separated from those dealing with developmental disabilities.

Social Skills Enhancement

• In some cases, individuals with developmental disabilities can benefit from formal social skills training. Working with children and adults who may struggle in certain social situations can dramatically increase their self-confidence, and improve their quality of life. Community Living Associations offer programs to enhance their client social skills.

Community Case Management

• Social workers and other specialists are often employed by Community Living Associations to help disabled people as well as their families. These workers help create and implement an organized plan that includes community resources, family involvement and the desires of the developmentally disabled individual. Each case is treated individually, and managed accordingly.

Supported Employment

• Looking for a job can be challenging for anyone, but it is especially challenging for those dealing with developmental disabilities. Community Living Associations have job coaching, job training and follow-up analysis programs to assist people with developmental disabilities to maintain gainful employment. Many Community Living Associations are able to provide proof of reduction in turnover, to potential employers, due to their supported employment services.

Community Connections

• Many community living associations have developed programs aimed at keeping kids and troubled teens interested and engaged in school. By coordinating with their local community resources, organizations can support young people with anti-bullying training, finance education and other resources to keep kids off the street. By offering this community connection, community living associations can make a valuable contribution to the lives of adolescents and teenagers struggling with learning disabilities.