Ann Storck Center Celebrates Adult Day Training Program Facility Renovation with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with Mayor Trantalis

 Ann Storck Center (ASC) – a Fort Lauderdale-based private nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities – is proud to announce it has completed renovations to its Adult Day Training Program Facility. The program will reopen on Monday, August 5, after a multi-year hiatus.

After experiencing significant damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017, ASC began renovations to its Adult Day Training Program in May 2022. The $1.5 million Adult Day Training renovation project is expected to be completed on August 5, 2024, and it aims to revitalize and enhance the facilities dedicated to serving adults with developmental disabilities.

ASC accommodates 96 permanent residents and serves more than 300 clients daily through an array of critical care, learning and ability focused programs. Throughout all its programs and services, the Center intends for individuals to discover ability and build independence so that individuals live happier, more independent, fulfilling lives.

ASC’s Adult Day Training Program is an on-site facility where residents go to participate in a diverse range of activities, fostering social interaction and skill development for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The center-based program cultivates an atmosphere of structure and excitement, where participants eagerly anticipate reuniting with friends and staff members each day. Community involvement is a key focus, and ASC provides a variety of engaging activities to support individuals in achieving their goals while exploring new interests and hobbies. Depending on each participant’s individualized plan, they may engage in goal-oriented classes or activities such as music therapy, art therapy, computer training, physical fitness, cooking and daily living skills.

The renovation project consisted of several key components designed to improve the functionality, accessibility and overall quality of the Adult Day Training Program including:

• Facility Upgrades: The renovation involved updating the 7,000-square-foot physical infrastructure of the Adult Day Training facilities to create a more conducive environment for learning, socialization and skill development. This included refurbishing interior spaces such as classrooms, activity areas and common areas to improve aesthetics, comfort and functionality.

With the renovation, the Adult Day Training Program facility is now fully wheelchair accessible and has four classrooms including an expressive arts room, a music room, a sensory room and a life skills room; six full bathrooms including showers; and a conference room.

The full renovation included painting the inside and outside; refurbishing the floors and walls; adding new electrical, fire and plumbing equipment; and a brand-new air conditioner. The building is equipped with all new furniture and equipment. All safety elements have been upgraded including a generator hook-up in case of hurricanes or emergencies. The building can also be converted into a residential option if necessary.

• Technology Integration: The renovation project also included the integration of technology solutions to support program delivery and enhance participant engagement. This involved installing multimedia equipment, interactive displays and assistive technology devices to facilitate learning, communication and skill development.
• Program Expansion: With the renovated facilities, the Adult Day Training Program can now accommodate 70 participants and offer a wider range of activities and services.

The renovation project was a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders, including ASC staff and board members, architect Neal Schofel of Architecture Dynamics and general contractor HITT. The project team worked closely to develop design plans, coordinate construction activities and ensure that the renovation meets the specific needs and requirements of the Adult Day Training Program. This project represents a significant investment in enhancing the quality of life and opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities. By creating a more modern, accessible and inclusive environment, the renovated facilities enable participants to participate in meaningful activities, develop essential skills, and foster social connections, ultimately promoting independence and empowerment within the community.

“The completion of our Adult Day Training Program renovation is an exciting milestone for Ann Storck Center. This expansion allows us to serve more individuals with developmental disabilities in the community and meet the growing demand for adult day training services,” said Ann Storck Center CEO Patricia (Pat) Murphy. “We want to celebrate our accomplishments but look forward with renewed determination and optimism that our work is far from over. Dreams, hard work and commitment can make a difference in lives. We will not rest until our good gets better and our better gets best.”

For more information about ASC, please visit annstorckcenter.org.