ADD's Community Connections

Connecting people to their community

People with developmental disabilities, as with anyone, need to be involved in their community. They also need the opportunity to develop friendships, be involved in meaningful activities that promote self-esteem and confidence and enjoy positive life experiences.

At ADD, we believe that being connected to the community is important. Many of our own life experiences involving recreational activities have played a part in the developing of our character and affect the direction we choose in our lives. This is why providing positive life experiences for participants to be successful in their community are so important.

Some frequently asked questions are:

What services are offered?

ADD's Community Connections offers a wide variety of Therapeutic Recreation programs in the community. Activities might include biking, yoga, swimming or developing social skills through activities that promote lasting relationships between peers and the community. These programs are group oriented and focus on enhancing social skills and self-esteem.

For many individuals, more intense Social Skills Programming is appropriate. ADD's Community Connections offers programs that focus on street-smart skills. This program teaches individuals how to succeed in the community and avoid being victimized. The program also offers classes on human sexuality, social planning, development of friendship skills and personal hygiene.

ADD's Community Connections also provides Volunteer Opportunities for participants. These activities allow the participant the opportunity to give to the community while developing new skills and interests.

The Spare-Time program provides a wealth of information about low cost and no cost recreational opportunities in the central Ohio area. The Recreation and Leisure Guide is a 444 page publication that is available for a cost of $25. To order the Guide, please send a check or money order to:

ADD – Rec and Leisure Guide
1392 Dublin Road
Columbus, OH 43215

Additional information regarding recreational opportunities may be found on the Spare Time website at http://www.spare-time.org

Who are the staff that are providing these services?

All Community Connections staff have degrees in Education, Social Work, Mental Retardation or Therapeutic Recreation. Staff are registered with the Ohio Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities.

How can I enroll in Community Connections programs?

To enroll, contact the Community Connections Program Manager at (614) 836-9675 x129 to request an application. Once your registration is received, you will be contacted to schedule an enrollment meeting.