CONNECTIONS

WHAT IS CONNECTIONS?

Connections is a program designed to assist people with developmental disablilities establish relationships with citizens of the community. People with disabilities often have limited opportunities to interact with the community. This pattern of life leads to loneliness and isolation.

The Connections program wants to limit the restrictions that have been placed on the lives of people with disabilities. We want to enhance the lives of the people in the community by developing "friendships" with people who are disabled.

The Connections program generates friendships between adults with mental disabilities and community volunteers.It involves spending some time to make a difference in someone's life.

CONNECTIONS VOLUNTEER JOB DESCRIPTION

The following are expectations we have of our volunteers:

• Be involved with at least one activity a month with your connections friend (in our out of the group home).
• Call your connections friend at least twice a month.
• Plan and give choices for age appropriate activities for your connections friend.
• Provide transportation (as needed) to and from activities.
• Hold in confidence all information shared by your connections friend, except in situations where you feel the person's health and safety are in jeopardy. In such instances, these situations must be reported to the staff member in the individual's home, or to the DCRA Volunteer Coordinator.
• Discuss your involvement with your Connections friend with the Volunteer Coordinator at least on a quarterly basis or as needed.
• Attend all in-services (training) as needed.

To become a Connections Volunteer, email the Volunteer Coordinator your full name and mailing address.