Jesse Tucker, Center, Alternatives director of quality improvement, with members of Alternatives’ Employment Services, from Left, Rachael Shepley, Julie Doyle and Christine McCarthy.
Photo credit: Contributed photo

The Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services recently completed its licensing and certification survey of Alternatives’ employment, day and residential services for people with developmental disabilities. Alternatives received very high scores and is licensed and recertified for the next two years.

The survey team looked at several group residences, employment and day programs. The team looks at issues of personal and environmental safety, staff, and goal accomplishment for the individuals served.

The Executive Summary of the report submitted by the team states “One of the many strengths of Alternatives was its strong organizational culture that focuses on person-centered values and outcomes that is captured in the agency’s mission and vision statements.” The report goes on to call attention to the agency’s “effective use of the Whole Life Planning Process that assists people in identifying and accomplishing their personal goals and dreams.”

In all phases of the survey, Alternatives received very high marks with an average score of 95 out of 100 in all areas. “This survey has recognized our staff’s commitment and dedication to ensuring that the individuals with developmental disabilities that we support lead successful and satisfying lives,” says Jesse Tucker, Alternatives director of quality improvement.

Writing about the employment services, the report concludes that “vocationally, people were employed in valued, visible jobs in community settings that were supported by effective career planning and evaluation processes.”

“It is very satisfying to have a major funder, which evaluates similar programs across the State, recognize that we did so well by comparison,” said Michael Seibold, Alternatives director of community services. “We also appreciate the excellent suggestions they offered for future program improvements.”

Alternatives helps individuals with disabilities build meaningful lives in the community – lives that include real homes, real jobs and real relationships. Last year, Alternatives provided services to over 1200 people in 55 residential, employment and day programs throughout Central Massachusetts. For more information about Alternatives, call 508-234-6232 or visit www.alternativesnet.org.