The Transitional Unit
National Deaf Academy has developed a specialized transition program dedicated for Deaf post-school adults, 18 and older who are in need of training for independent living and vocational skills but continue to require supervision, support and assistance. The goal of this program is to assist the residents to develop and practice skills that will maximize the potential for personal growth and assist them in the transition to home, a traditional group home or alternative setting in their home state.
The Transitional Unit is housed in 2 homelike dormitories on NDA's campus and has the capacity of 9 male and 9 female residents. This new unit is a step between a residential treatment program and a community based group home. On site supervision will be provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The support staff includes habilitation staff, a house manager and a nurse.
The residents participating in the Transitional Unit will receive a variety of services to aid in the process of developing the necessary skills for successful transition to a less restrictive setting. These services include in-house trainings and on-site transition program, community services and involvement, employment, Deaf community services, recreation and entertainment. Additionally, the program includes the day-today schedule that promotes residents to maintain their recovery and continue to enhance self-independence.
In addition to the in-house trainings residents of the Unit will have required and specific responsibilities including household chores and activities, meal preparation/cooking, shopping and community services and involvement.
IN-HOUSE TRAININGS
- Domestic and Life Skills
- Money Management
- Job Skills
- Communication, Social and Interpersonal Skills
- Advanced Self-Care Skills
- Leadership
- Leisure Skills
- Meal Preparation and Cooking
- Communication Awareness and Reintegration
ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR THE TRANSITIONAL UNIT
Eligible adults for the Transitional Unit must meet the following criteria:
- 18 years or older who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and prepared for post-school adult living program
- Has a history of mental health issues with or without developmental impairments
- Shows some attained independent living skills: self-maintenance skills and money management
- Demonstrates the ability to be integrated in the community
- Demonstrate the ability to participate in the community services, employment, recreations and daily living training.
- Must not be actively psychotic or have had recent episode of severe aggression in the last four to six months.
- Be able to maintain appropriate social and interpersonal behaviors.
*Admissions may include but are not limited to current NDA residents and are determined on a case-by-case basis.
If you have additional questions about our Transitional Unit or wish to make a referral, please contact National Deaf Academy directly at 1-866-588-DEAF (3323).