Ulster-Greene ARC offers a wide range of housing possibilities to maximize individuals’ independence; because of that range, an individual’s needs and interests can be matched to the least restrictive housing environment. Individuals who would like to purchase their own home are assisted by agency representatives, who will work through the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) to make that dream a reality. Pre-purchase homeownership classes are offered on readiness, affordability, and money/credit management. Home-based Supports enable individuals to continue to live in their natural homes with their families, supported by such options as early intervention, daytrips into community settings, and family respite. Supported Apartments offer individuals the opportunity to live autonomously but with such supports as training in social skills, apartment living skills, and finances as needed. Our certified community living homes now offer smaller and more personalized surroundings; Most people choose shared housing arrangements with private bedrooms but with housemates for companionship. Ulster-Greene ARC provides over 30 licensed homes where individuals receive support as needed. Individuals participate in daily trips, classes, and activities and their choices – self-advocacy – are validated by new opportunities developed in response to their desire for growth and self-expression. Our elder-care facility, Palmer Center, has been downsized from a large single building to three smaller units, creating warm, home-like settings where residents live healthy and emotionally fulfilling lifestyles with support.

Palmer Center, where our aging individuals make their home continues to provide a full life and home for elderly individuals with disabilities.  Each person is provided the opportunity to lead a full life in their senior years by enabling them to have the comfort of their own bedroom and home as opposed to a nursing home existence.  Their bedrooms are personalized according to their choice and they are actively involved in deciding the color and design of their bedroom.  The holistic approach used takes into account the person’s entire life picture – their history, physiological make-up, abilities and disabilities interests, and their psychological well being. These homes have changed the lives of 30 people. The individuals living in Palmer Center have also made their presence known in the community by worshipping with members from a local church.  Every other Sunday church members come to Palmer to sing with them.   Church members use sign language with the individuals and encourage them to sing along with them.  A sermon is tailored to their needs so the message of the day can be easily understood.  At the end of the service, questions are asked about the sermon; with smiles on their faces, they are excited to give the answers.  The 3 10-bed homes is a state of the art environment that successfully achieves a delicate balance between providing a home environment and a cutting edge medical facility.