Individual Residence Alternative (IRA)

The Individualized Residential Alternative Program, located in the Co-op City Complex in the North Bronx, provides services to young adults who are mentally and/or developmentally challenged.

One of the main goals of the program is to assist the young adults with whom we work to achieve the highest level of independence while respecting their individuality. This is achieved by focusing on our Service Participants’ (formally referred to as consumers) valued outcomes (what they want to achieve). These valued outcomes are reduced into components that are translated into monthly goals. Successful completion of these components will lead to goal achievement and some level of independence.

Mr. J, who entered the program in 1995 has decided that he is ready to live on his own. He has started job training that will prepare and place him in a job that will pay him at least the minimum wage. This will allow him to begin to investigate independent and/or supported types of living arrangements. In the residence, Mr. J’s goals include money management and budgeting.

Mr. V, who entered the program in 1995 is also seeking a more independent lifestyle. Mr. V works weekends for a large department store chain. Mr. V’s goals include money management with an emphasis on saving.

Mr. K and Ms. B spent five days this year at a residential camp upstate. These Service Participants are basically non-verbal. The camping experience gives them both the opportunity to be part of a less structured environment where they meet, relate to and socialize.

Mr. R and Ms. P work as volunteers in a local hospital for the terminally ill. Both received commendations this year for their outstanding participation. As volunteers, they have the opportunity to be involved with community residents and at the same time offer a most valuable service.

reverside drive, individual residential alternative

Edwin Gould Services for Children and Families has been approved to offer an IRA program. The program will focus on skills that emphasize independence and individuality. The facility will provide residential services to 4 young women and 4 young men. The service participants eagerly and excitedly anticipate moving in.