L.I.F.E. on the Coast

Learning Independence From Experience or L.I.F.E. on the Coast is an exciting new service initiated by Parents and Friends, Inc.

L.I.F.E. on the Coast is a totally community based service that is tailored to an individual’s needs involving work and non-work related activities. All services are provided in natural environments where activities typically occur for non-disabled people. Participants in this new service must be 18 years of age and older and may include those in their last year of high school. Participants are encouraged and supported to choose their own job development and other activities based on their own dreams, needs, and goals.

Staff is flexible and creative in developing schedules and supporting participant preferences. There is open communication among participants, their families, educators, service providers, regional center service coordinators, and rehabilitation couselors. Activities are structured to maximize interaction with and proximity to non-disabled peers, co-workers, and community members. Staff promotes, encourages and supports people with and without disabilities to interact while respecting the needs and perspectives of all parties. We recognize that personal connections develop over time and depend on frequency of opportunity and the comfort level of the individuals. Individuals are given aids and supports to allow them to better engage and interact with others.

For more information, call Jessica Newell at 964-2786.