CDS Monarch launches 12-week transition class to help people with disabilities move into the community

Through a state grant, CDS Monarch has partnered with The Community Place, Ibero-American Action League and Urban League of Rochester to develop a 12-week transition class to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities learn the skills necessary to move into their own apartment or home and be successful.

“The model of care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities is shifting,” CDS Life Transitions President/CEO Sankar Sewnauth said. “The state is moving away from traditional settings. To prepare for this shift, these classes help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities learn the skills necessary to become successful members of their communities.”

The classes, which began May 4, feature expert guest speakers who will instruct the students on topics the students have identified as areas of interest to them, including money management, job-seeking skills, nutrition, among others. The students will also receive first aid and fire safety training from the City of Rochester fire department.

The transition class meets on Wednesday afternoons from 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the Wolf Life Transitions Center, 860 Hard Road, Webster.

The individuals will have the support of a peer mentor, transitional coordinators and two other support staff who will help them practice the skills they will learn over the 12-week course. Upon completion of the classes, these supports will continue for an additional 12 weeks to ensure the students’ success.