News Summary
The Ready For Life program is launching a new location in Big Rapids to provide essential support for adults with disabilities. This expansion seeks to address the community’s needs following the closure of local support services. The facility is designed for accessibility and aims to foster community engagement and social opportunities for individuals with disabilities through its various programs. Open office hours will be held prior to the formal opening, allowing the community to learn more about the services offered.
Big Rapids is set to welcome a new location of the Ready For Life program, which provides essential support for adults with disabilities. The expansion aims to fill a gap left by the closure of a local branch of Hope Network last year and will further the program’s mission of fostering community engagement and social opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Ready For Life, originally based in Grand Rapids and operational since 2010, has established a proven track record in assisting adults through two main initiatives: the Ready For Life Group CLS program, which caters specifically to adults, and the Ready For Life Academy, which is tailored for college students. The program’s expansion into Big Rapids is a strategic move informed by research into the local community’s needs and a response to inquiries received following the closure of local support services.
The new facility, located at 502 B N. State St., Big Rapids, is designed with accessibility in mind. The space does not require major modifications and includes features such as a ramp and accessible bathroom facilities, ensuring that all individuals can participate in activities with ease.
In terms of programming, the Ready For Life Group CLS focuses on encouraging clients to engage with their communities. Participants can select from various partner organizations or volunteer sites to visit, rather than being confined to a self-contained environment. This approach allows individuals to explore their interests while developing social connections and skills in real-world settings.
Furthermore, the program also offers social opportunities for participants who may not require extensive support but still wish to interact and connect socially. This aspect of the program highlights its commitment to inclusivity and community building, accommodating a diverse range of needs.
Executive Director Toni Falk highlighted that the program’s connection to Big Rapids is not new; it has already established links through the Ready For Life Academy at Ferris State University. This relationship already provides a foundation for the new location, enhancing the potential for successful community integration.
The timeline for the opening of the Big Rapids location is targeted for August 1, contingent on sufficient client interest. Preparations for the move into the new space are scheduled for the upcoming weekend, and the program is eager to get underway as soon as possible. Prior to the formal opening, the organization will host open office hours the week of July 14, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., inviting prospective clients and community partners to visit and learn more about the available services.
Individuals interested in applying for services or seeking additional information about the Ready For Life program can reach out via email at info@rflnetwork.org or contact Falk directly at 616-330-8667. With this expansion, Ready For Life aims to continue its dedication to empowering adults with disabilities, fostering their capacity to engage with their communities, and creating meaningful social interactions.
This new chapter for Ready For Life not only seeks to meet demand but also reinforces the importance of inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities in the Big Rapids area.
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Additional Resources
- Big Rapids News: Ready Life Program Opening
- Wikipedia: Disability
- Fox17: White Cloud Teacher Lawsuit
- Google Search: Special Education
- Big Rapids News: Resource Officers Honored
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Social Work
- Wood TV: Arc Kent County Services
- Google News: Community Support for Adults with Disabilities
