Ann Storck Center Expands its Services with Three New Programs to Support Children and Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Ann Storck Center Expands its Services with Three New Programs to Support Children and Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Ann Storck Center Expands its Services with Three New Programs to Support Children and Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Ann Storck Center Expands its Services with Three New Programs to Support Children and Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
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 expanded its services with three new programs: Supported Training and Employment Program (STEP), In-Home Respite and Family Strengthening. 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.
Aligned with Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, observed annually in March, ASC continues its mission to bring people of all abilities into a supportive community where each is inspired to realize a fulfilling life of purpose, possibility and love. The month-long observance champions individuals with developmental disabilities for their achievements, advocates for their rights and promotes understanding and inclusivity within society. Developmental disabilities are defined as impairments in physical, learning, language or behavior areas, and include autism spectrum disorders; cerebral palsy; attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); learning or intellectual disabilities; hearing loss; vision impairment and other developmental delays.
ASC opened the doors to its brand-new Supported Training and Employment Program (STEP). This program is designed to give young adults with disabilities, aged 15-21, the opportunity to get a step up in their adult life. STEP offers its participants the chance to explore career paths, learn about community service, gain social and employability skills, receive individualized support, participate in non-school day activities including field trips and afterschool programs and take paid summer internships. STEP is a year-round program offered Monday through Thursday.
ASC believes families need an opportunity to take a much-needed break from caregiving with support. ASC’s new In-Home Respite program is designed to provide temporary at-home care by trained professionals who specialize in the individualized needs of each child they serve. Eligible families can receive up to 200 hours of care from ASC’s professional caregivers. Families can expect safe and nurturing care in their own home by trained professionals who cater to the individual needs of each child through specialized care and engaging activities.
ASC introduced its new Family Strengthening Program to families in the community with children birth through 12 with special needs. The goal of the program is to empower parents to enhance their positive parenting abilities, discipline techniques and teaching methods. This program offers insight into coping strategies for reducing behaviors and stressors, addressing the expectations and fears associated with raising children with special needs, including in-home services, group sessions, case management and financial assistance.
To sign up for the Family Strengthening program, please visit https://annstorckcenter.jotform.com/240256712529153.
“We are proud to expand our services and offer the South Florida community three new programs including our Supported Training and Employment Program (STEP), In-Home Respite and Family Strengthening Program,” said ASC CEO Patricia (Pat) Murphy. “The expansion of our programs will not only allow us to serve more individuals with developmental disabilities in the community but further support and strengthen their families. We are looking forward to seeing the progress of those who participate!”
Additionally, in 2024, ASC completed a $1.5 million renovation to its Adult Day Training Program Facility, aimed to revitalize and enhance the facilities dedicated to serving adults with developmental disabilities.
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, technology integration and 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.
