Community Habilitation

Community Habilitation is an OPWDD services that provides one-on-one support within the home or community. It focuses on adaptive skill development and hands-on assistance with daily living activities. This program ensures that individuals receive the support they need to thrive in supportive social groups and ecosystems. Community inclusion is at the heart of this program, empowering participants to lead fulfilling lives.

This program is certified by the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD)

Our Community Habilitation is an OPWDD-certified program designed for those individuals who would benefit from more personalized attention.

Individuals enrolled in the program are assigned a specific worker who is trained to help with the specific issues prohibiting a client fully realizing his/her potential.

The ultimate goal of the program is to support individuals developing skills that will allow them to be more independent, either within the house or outside in the community. Such goals might be as fundamental as bed making and teeth brushing, or as complex as successfully navigating the community and interacting with strangers appropriately.

Program Schedule

Hours of operation are scheduled on an individual basis.

Eligibility

  • Individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disability over the age of 12 who live at home.

  • Must reside in the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn or Westchester County.

  • Must have OPWDD eligibility.

What Individuals with Developmental Disabilities Receive

Our Community Habilitation OPWDD aims to support comprehensive development. It focuses on improving adaptive skills, helping with everyday living tasks, fostering relationships, and promoting inclusion within the community.

Here's a glimpse into what individuals with developmental disabilities receive through our program:

Adaptive Skill Development 

Our Community Habilitation program prioritizes adaptive skill development to empower individuals with the tools necessary for daily life. Whether it's mastering essential tasks or enhancing problem-solving abilities, we provide personalized guidance to promote independence and confidence.

Daily Living Activities

Our program offers assistance with activities of daily living to ensure seamless integration into routine tasks. From personal hygiene routines to household chores, our programs aim to enhance autonomy and overall well-being while promoting positive behavior support for adults with developmental disabilities.

Relationship Building

Social connections are vital for a fulfilling life. Through tailored strategies and guided interactions, we facilitate the development of meaningful connections, fostering a sense of belonging within the community.

Community Inclusion

Our program helps individuals with developmental disabilities overcome isolation by promoting inclusion. We break down barriers and create opportunities for participation in community activities, such as joining clubs, attending events, or volunteering. Our support groups for intellectual disability aim to integrate individuals seamlessly into their community.

Diverse Skill Development

Our program develops crucial social, self-advocacy, and informed choice skills. We equip individuals with the tools to express themselves, make informed decisions, and engage confidently in social settings.

Enroll Into The Program

Individuals, Parents, Care Managers, and Guardians/Advocates, please use the form below to sign up into our program. At Gateway your needs and those of your loved ones are met with the utmost care and attention

Meet Our Program Members

Our day program for adults with developmental disabilities is a thriving community where each member brings their unique strengths and personalities.

Application Process

  1. Submit Your Application

  2. Await Contact: Our Intake Director will reach out to you via email.

  3. Personalized Consultation: Discuss your needs and program specifics with our Intake team.

  4. Intake/Tour- followed by a Trial

  5. Care Manager submission of required documentation- OPWDD approval

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • You can begin the enrollment process or submit a referral for enrollment by filling out this form.

    You can also contact us through this form if you have further questions about our agency and programs.

  • In order to receive OPWDD services at Gateway, you must have OPWDD eligibility.

    Each program has unique eligibility requirements. More information can be found on the program information page here.

  • Those who qualify for OPWDD services will have assistance coordinating their healthcare with a Care Coordination Organization (CCO).

    CCOs provide comprehensive care management, care coordination and health promotion, comprehensive transitional care from inpatient to other settings, individual and family support, referrals and links to services. The CCOs in Gateway’s region are Advance Care Alliance, Care Design NY, Tri-County Care and Partners Health Plan FIDA-IDD. In addition to those above, Westchester County residents can also use LifePlan CCO.

    You can find contact information for the CCOs here.

  • During the enrollment process, Gateway will work with the designated Care Manager who will submit a psychological evaluation, medical exam, Lifeplan and Level of Care. You may already have these documents from your enrollment into OPWDD or other programs.

    If you need assistance obtaining these documents, Gateway will work with your Care Manager to get you started!

  • Yes, we do!