Intellectual Disabilities
Live Life on Your Own Terms
Community Resources for Independence (CRI) provides meaningful support for individuals with intellectual disabilitiesto help them live their lives with confidence, purpose, and independence. We recognize that every person is unique, with their own preferences, interests, and abilities. Our approach centers on helping each person live life on their own terms where they feel most comfortable and supported.
At CRI, we are committed to providing the support individuals need while preserving their independence. We offer a variety of in-home and community services that empower people to live independently or with their families, avoiding institutional settings. Additionally, for those who choose to live in group homes, we provide one-on-one staffing to help them safely engage with their community, focus on their personal goals, and build meaningful connections.
Get Support to Stay Where You Feel Most Comfortable.
Starting support services can feel overwhelming. That’s why our Care Representatives take time to understand each person’s situation and create a personalized plan that meets their specific goals. If you or a family member are interested in exploring services for adults or children with intellectual disabilities, we can help you find the right balance of care and independence.
You can schedule a teleconference or in-person consultation by calling 1-800-530-5541or completing our online form.
CRI currently supports individuals through base funding as well as Pennsylvania IDD waivers, including the Consolidated Waiver, Person/Family Directed Services Waiver, and the Community Living Waiver. Once an individual has received a waiver or secured base funding, they are eligible for CRI Services. CRI does not have any role or influence in the waiver approval process.
In-Home and Community Support Opportunities
Each individual’s goals are different, which is why CRI offers a range of support for people with intellectual disabilitiesthat promote independence, personal growth, and inclusion. Our Direct Support Professionals provide consistent guidance and encouragement in daily activities while respecting personal choice and privacy.
Some of the supports we offer include:
- Personal Care Services:Assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and oral care, based on individual preferences and abilities.
- Instruction on Personal Hygiene:Practical teaching on how and why hygiene supports overall well-being and social confidence.
- Meal Assistance:Help with meal preparation, safe cooking, or enjoying meals with others for companionship and community connection.
- Household Chore Support:Step-by-step assistance and instruction with cleaning, laundry, dishes, and other household responsibilities.
- Shopping Support:Transportation to and from a retail location and help with comparing prices or handling money and transactions. For example, when we are out shopping, individuals have the right to buy whatever they want. We can suggest something cheaper, or let them know they did not bring enough money for the purchase but ultimately, they make their own decisions.
- Budgeting Instruction: From counting money to teaching money management, saving for larger purchases, and ensuring correct change during shopping, we cover all aspects of financial literacy.
- Healthy Living Guidance:Support in finding fitness programs, understanding food choices, and reminders to follow health recommendations from medical providers.
- Social Skills and Boundaries:This service is designed for individuals living in group homes or facilities to engage in a variety of integrated community activities that align with their interests, preferences, and strengths. Since group homes and institutions have their own staff to provide in home services, CRI service happens outside of the home environment so the individual can get out in the community with 1:1 attention and integrate into settings with people who don’t have disabilities.
At every step, CRI emphasizes safe, reliable, and person-centered services. Our team works closely with each participant to help them make progress, gain independence, and experience a sense of belonging.
Living a Healthy, Fulfilling Life Through Inclusion
Inclusion is more than participation it’s belonging. CRI helps individuals engage with their communities in ways that promote both physical and emotional well-being. Our programs promote active living through enjoyable activities like going to the park, joining an exercise class, or spending time outdoors.
We also focus on building meaningful relationships. Staff can support individuals in joining clubs, attending social gatherings, or finding volunteer opportunities that align with their interests. This not only improves confidence but also builds lasting community connections while allowing individuals to choose how to spend their time.
At CRI, we promote healthy living and inclusion. We know that it can be a struggle to feel included in the community, which makes trying new things or participating in activities difficult. Our staff will help you participate in your favorite activities and interests, such as going to parks, walking on trails, Zumba, and exercise classes. We encourage social activities like meeting up with friends and will teach appropriate social boundaries and interaction.
We serve as a link between you and the community to help remove boundaries and boost confidence so that you become a part of the community you live in. We believe these types of activities are necessary to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
Our role is to ensure everyone has equal access to community spaces, resources, and opportunities for personal growth.
What Does Living with an Intellectual Disability Mean?
Living with an intellectual disability presents unique opportunities for growth in learning, problem-solving, and daily living skills. With the right support, individuals with intellectual disabilities can excel in communication, social interaction, and performing everyday tasks, leading fulfilling, independent lives.
At CRI, we’re committed to empowering individuals to reach their full potential. Our Direct Support Professionals help individuals develop essential skills, fostering inclusion, confidence, and active participation in their communities by:
- Practicing communication skills that encourage self-expression.
- Strengthening social interaction to form positive relationships.
- Improving daily routines, from meal planning to budgeting.
This individualized approach ensures that every individual receives meaningful services that fit their personal goals.
With quality IDD services, individuals with intellectual disabilities can thrive at home, at work, and within their communities. CRI’s programs highlight practical skill-building and inclusion, not limitations or labels.
Our mission is rooted in respect, equality, and empowerment. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to live independently and contribute to their community in a way that reflects their strengths and values.
Building Confidence, Independence, and Connection
Community Resources for Independence works in partnership with individuals, families, and community organizations to provide support for people with intellectual disabilities. By focusing on education, personal choice, and advocacy, we help remove barriers that prevent inclusion and support independence.
Our approach is guided by the core values of individual control, empowerment, education, and advocacy.
When people have access to the right supports, they gain more than assistance; they gain the ability to make choices, set goals, and live a self-directed life.
To learn more about our services for people with intellectual disabilities, contact our team today. Let us be part of your journey to more independence and inclusion.
