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Robinson Developmental Center: Transition to Community Living
Moving into the community where neighbors know your name, friendships are nurtured, reciprocity is practiced, and each person has an opportunity to develop social roles is the dream for some, and now the reality for many in Pittsburgh.
Robinson Developmental Center (RDC), the ICF/MR component of Citizen Care, Inc. closed its doors on October 1, 2003 when the last four individuals moved into their new home in Moon Township, Pittsburgh, PA. Since the project began in December of 2000, Citizen Care, Inc. has moved 85 individuals into 21 new homes throughout the western and southern suburbs of Pittsburgh, PA. In addition, seven individuals returned to their counties of origin at their request, to be closer to family members. With the closing of RDC, Citizen Care, Inc. currently provides residential services and supports to over 200 individuals at 75 community locations.
All RDC staff, including direct service, dietary, housekeeping, and support services were offered positions within the agency. The transition could not have been a success without the full support of all staff.
The closing of RDC has significantly increased people's opportunities for building social capital with other individuals, including families, neighbors, friends, and community groups. Initially, when individuals moved into their new homes, they were supported to have an 'Open House' for family, friends, and their new neighbors. Involvement with family members has significantly increased since individuals have moved into the community. Families appear more comfortable visiting relatives in their homes, and individuals have had greater opportunities to get to know extended family members. One individual's family offered to coordinate an Open House party and assumed responsibility for asking other family members to contribute food for the party. This individual's mother proudly announced that she was happy to sponsor the Open House party for her son, as she had never had the opportunity to have a party for him and his friends in the past.
Families have also become more actively involved in supporting people in achieving their hopes and dreams. Karen had a long-time goal to visit New York City to attend the theatre and shop on Fifth Avenue. After September 11, 2001, the thought of Karen achieving this goal seemed a little remote. As time passed, Karen's sister and her friend agreed that they would accompany Karen to New York City. Karen's sister and friend assisted Karen with planning the itinerary, which included attending a Broadway show, meeting Katie Couric of the Today Show, attending Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral, and shopping on Fifth Avenue. A trip that started so cautiously ended as a lifetime memory between sisters.
People have built new relationships with neighbors as a result of the open house parties and participating in holiday gift exchanges. They are also learning to reciprocate by lending a helping hand to the neighbors. For instance, Ann supports her elderly neighbor by picking up her mail each day; while others pick up food for homebound neighbors during shopping trips. One group of gentlemen sponsored a food drive for a local food bank and collected items from family, friends, and neighbors.
Relationships with the neighbors have significantly broadened people's ties to the community. One neighbor invited Donna to visit her church, which resulted in Donna joining the church and becoming a 'greeter.' John is now delivering the weekly community newsletter in his neighborhood. When Henry moved into his new home, the neighbors visited him and asked him to join the Neighborhood Watch Group.
The community has been very responsive and supportive. When a few women began attending a local community church, the members greeted them with open arms. The women have become members of the church and actively participate in many of the church functions and activities. The pastor had the front pew removed to accommodate the women's wheelchairs. A local Weight Watchers group purchased a scale for a woman who needs a wheelchair so that she could periodically weigh herself.
In a short period of time, living in the community has greatly enhanced individuals' opportunities to build social capital, which has resulted in individuals becoming more valued members of their new communities.
Finally, and without a doubt, closing RDC was the right thing to do. Under the leadership and direction of Chief Executive Officer, Don DiMichele, the Chief Operating Officer, Elmer Nemeth, and Executive Director, Cindy King, the closing of RDC was well managed and cost effective. In fact, the closure occurred nine months ahead of schedule. According to Mr. DiMichele, "This project was successful due to a total commitment from the Pennsylvania Office of Mental Retardation, the Allegheny County Department of Human Services, the Independent Supports Coordination Units of Allegheny County, the Board of Directors and employees of Citizen Care, Inc. and most importantly, the individuals served and their families."
This story was written and submitted by the staff at Citizen Care, Inc. Citizen Care, Inc. has been continuously accredited by The Council since 1978 and was recently awarded Reaccreditation With Distinction for a period of three years.
The Council is committed to collecting and sharing stories of personal achievement and the effects on people and organizations when an outcomes focus is in place. We encourage you to share your stories by sending them to Shelly McLaughlin at info@thecouncil.org.
