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Posted September
23, 2003
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Allen Institute
Michael
Worthen, M.Ed., Dean
of Administration
Hebron, Connecticut
866-666-6919
In September 2003, the Allen Institute, a program of Easter Seals
Connecticut/Rhode Island, will be opening a "comprehensive,
non-degree, campus-based program" designed for young adults
between 18 and 26 years of age. Their goal is to "promote
personal independence, and provide opportunities for growth and
self-sufficiency." With "great excitement and anticipation" the
Old Forge Center announces its merger with Allen Institute of Hebron,
Connecticut. "After a decade of service and innovative, individualized
programming for post secondary students with learning challenges,
the Old Forge Center has decided to close its doors with the graduation
of the Class of 2003. Their merger with the Allen Institute will
create a "union of strengths of two philosophically and programmatically
similar, mission driven institutions."
The Allen Institute offers a "highly intensive three-year
program that transitions an individual from campus life to independent
apartment living." During the first year, residents concentrate
on developing self-confidence and the "skills needed to live,
learn, work, and socialize with others." Then, in the second
and third years residents learn problem solving, learning to compromise
and independent thinking. The residents will be able to experience
different job sites in the community to develop new interests and
experience, which will then be highlighted in a portfolio that
can be presented to prospective employers. They are also offering
an "exciting new program with a primary interest in serving
young adults with a diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome.
The Allen Institute will monitor each individual's well being,
assessing their current health conditions. They will provide nutrition,
fitness, safety, and sexuality education. Mental/social/emotional
supports and group sessions are also an important aspect of their
instruction. They have an indoor heated pool, a gym and theatre,
and are "located on 160 wooded acres in Eastern Connecticut,
offering a beautiful natural environment while only minutes away
from many cultural, educational and vocational opportunities. Program
costs may be partially defrayed through Social Security Income
payments. |
