About Citizens options unlimited
Citizens Options Unlimited: Empowering People with I/DD to Achieve Their Goals
Citizens Options Unlimited (Citizens) is a non-profit organization that provides self-directed services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Founded in 1977, Citizens has been empowering individuals with I/DD to achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives for over four decades.
At Citizens, the focus is on providing personalized support that meets the unique needs of each individual. Through self-directed services, individuals are able to take control of their own lives and make decisions about the services they receive. This approach allows for greater flexibility and choice, as well as increased independence and autonomy.
One of the key benefits of self-directed services is that they allow individuals to choose their own providers. This means that they can work with professionals who understand their specific needs and preferences, rather than being assigned a provider by an agency or organization. Additionally, self-direction allows for greater creativity in service delivery, as individuals are able to explore new approaches and solutions.
Citizens offers a wide range of services designed to support individuals with I/DD in achieving their goals. These include residential supports such as group homes and supported living arrangements; day habilitation programs focused on skill-building; employment supports including job coaching and vocational training; respite care for families; transportation assistance; behavioral health services; nursing care; assistive technology supports; advocacy services; recreational activities; and more.
One unique aspect of Citizens' approach is its emphasis on community integration. The organization believes that all people should have access to meaningful relationships, opportunities for personal growth, and participation in community life. To this end, Citizens works closely with local businesses, schools, faith communities, civic organizations, government agencies,and other stakeholders to create inclusive environments where everyone can thrive.
Another important aspect of Citizens' work is its commitment to person-centered planning. This process involves working closely with each individual served by the organization - along with family members or other advocates -to identify strengths,priorities,and goals,and develop a plan tailored specificallyto meet those needs.Person-centered planning helps ensure that each person's voice is heard,and empowers themto take an active rolein shapingtheir own future.
In addition,Citizens places great importance on staff trainingand development.Theorganizationbelievesthatwell-trainedandmotivatedstaffareessentialtodeliveringhigh-qualityservices.Throughongoingtrainingandprofessionaldevelopmentopportunities,Citizensstaffareabletostayup-to-dateonthe latestbestpracticesinthe fieldofI/DDservices.Thiscommitmenttoprofessionalismhelpsensurethatindividualsreceivethehighestqualitysupportspossible.
Overall,CitizensOptionsUnlimitediscommittedtoempoweringpeoplewithI/DDtoreachtheirfullpotentialthroughself-directedservices.Throughitsfocusonperson-centeredplanning,inclusivecommunityintegration,andprofessionalstaffdevelopment,theorganizationisabletoprovidehigh-qualitysupportsthatenableindividualstoachievemorethantheyeverthoughtpossible.Ifyouorafamilymemberarelookingforself-directedservicesforpeoplewithI/DD,youcantrustCitizenstoofferthepersonalized,supportivecareyouneedtosucceed!
citizens-inc.org
