56 Chestnut Street
Waltham, MA 02453
Phone: 781-899-1344 x4112 (voice) 781-899-8555 (TTY)
Fax: (781) 899-2197
View the Opportunities for Inclusion website
Information Specialist:
E-mail: admin@oppsforinclusion.org
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM
Additional Locations: 31 Woodland Road Waltham. College work sites at Bentley, Brandeis & Lasell
Organization Narrative
For over 55 years, Opportunities for Inclusion (formerly GWArc ) has been providing services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Each year over 600 people receive services in the following areas: day programs, vocational programming, transitional services,recreation and adult family care.
Opportunities for Inclusion Day Habilitation Program serves adults with developmental, physical and other disabilities who are able to benefit from a structured program that focuses on increasing functional skill development with therapeutic and health supports provided in varied environments. Equipment is adapted or modified by program consultants to enable the participants to use materials as independently as possible. Using a comprehensive assessment of each participant’s unique skills, preference and learning style, the Opportunities for Inclusion team develops detailed service plans that include an individualized schedule of daily training and therapeutic activities that are implemented across program environments.
Opportunities for Inclusion‘s Employment, Plus and Transitions (EPT) Program is multifaceted and works with school-aged children in Waltham and adults in the greater Waltham area. Program components for adults include: independent supported employment, supported employment at work sites located on college campuses, work opportunities at an agency-owned business and a life skills training program. Additionally, Opportunities for Inclusion has a contract with Waltham Public Schools to provide a variety of job-related transition skills to students aged 13-22.
Opportunities for Inclusion’s Adult Family Care (AFC) Program is a Medicaid funded program which provides financial assistance and support to a caregiver who is providing 24-hour care. The AFC. Caregivers may receive up to $18,000 a year depending on the level of care the consumer is qualified for. This program allows the consumer the dignity of remaining in his or her home and being cared for the caregiver of their choice.
Opportunities for Inclusion provides recreation activities for children, adolescents and adults that maximize community inclusion in Waltham and surrounding towns. Year round adult programs are planned at Opportunities for Inclusion facilities or at community sites. Children’s services are provided in collaboration with the Waltham and Newton Recreation Departments, the Waltham YMCA and the Waltham Boys and Girls Club. Also, an inclusive summer camp is run that enables children to attend various community camps in Waltham. GWArc typically enters a team comprised of adults and children into Special Olympics each year.
Opportunities for Inclusion is a 501-3(c) agency that is funded through DDS, DMA, Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission and MAB. Opportunities for Inclusion is accredited by CARF, DDS and DMA. Programs serve the greater Waltham area including, but not limited to, Waltham, Watertown, Newton, Lexington and Somerville. Opportunities for Inclusion plans excellent programs that are based on consumer choice, family/guardian input and community support and that provide community involvement and inclusive opportunities. You are invited to contact Roslynn Rubin for further information or to schedule a tour of Opportunities for Inclusion programs.
Population(s) Served
Developmental Disabilities and Intellectual Disabilities
Language(s)
American Sign Language
Services
- Therapeutic Day Programs
- Job Training and Support
- School to Work Transitions
- Inclusive Summer Camp
- Adult and Children Recreation Programs
- Adult Family Care
Eligibility/Criteria/Enrollment
Variable to service / program option
Fees
Variable