ABOUT US

In a study conducted by Frank H. Kobe and James A. Mulick (2002), data was presented on the physical, developmental, and behavioral characteristics of ambulatory persons with developmental disabilities, residing within a specialized service setting.

 
 

The results indicated that these individuals had a high prevalence of physical & medical problems, along with high rates of self-injurious, stereotypic, and aggressive behaviors. The data also illustrated the complexity of needs in providing habilitative services to non-ambulatory persons with developmental disabilities.


Harmony Homes Adult Residential Facility recognizes the challenges & needs of the population. Therefore, our purpose will be to modify & operate an effective specialized adult residential care facility that accommodates up to four ambulatory male clients, ages 18-59. As such, we will develop & implement a therapeutic milieu that addresses all aspects of the residents’ needs (e.g. physical, motor, medical, behavioral, psychiatric, social, recreational, communication, etc.). Additionally, we seek to guarantee the safety of our ambulatory residents in the event of an emergency. To facilitate this goal, we will meet all fire clearance requirements set forth by the State Fire Marshal (See Title 22, Div 6, Chap 8, Art 1-2, and Section 87220).


Finally, this facility will operate on a behavioral model and treatment will focus on the individual needs of each resident. Programming will not be aversive but will focus on the principles of positive reinforcement. We will provide emergency crisis intervention services (e.g., mental health/behavior modification, etc.) and will have highly trained & qualified staff to support the needs of each resident. Our goal will be to implement behavioral intervention plans (in the least restricted environment), designed to change the thinking, emotions, and behaviors of our ambulatory & aggressive residents. Essentially, our purpose will be to teach these individuals to cope with their physical & developmental disabilities, to provide alternatives to inappropriate & disruptive behaviors, and to coordinate any services necessary to promote self-reliance, confidence, and the highest quality of life.

 

Facility / Physical Plan:

Harmony Homes Adult Residential Facility will lease and operate a 24-hour, highly structured four-bed residential facilities, servicing four ambulatory males ages 18-59, with severe to profound developmental disabilities & aggressive behaviors). The facility will meet all fire clearance requirements set forth by the State Fire Marshal, prior to participant move-in (See Title 22, Div 6, Chap 8, Art 1-2, and Section 87220). The facility will also maintain posted licenses authorizing Harmony Homes to provide services, as well as an evacuation plan, complete with emergency exit routes. Harmony Homes will be located in SCLARC’s catchment area and will feature an outdoor area to guarantee access to recreational and social activities (e.g., games, barbeques, and related physical/ social activities). The program will maintain direct care staff on duty 24 hours per day.