![[Photo]](media/images/photos/photo_11.jpg)
Our Plan
In Ohio, over 16,000 people are on a waiting list for residential services. Of that number, more than 6,000 people are not receiving residential services of any kind.
We all make choices each and every day. We choose where we live and with whom. We chose wether we live in a single residence or in a community. We choose where we work and how we spend our leisure time. All of the choices we make help us grow and develop as individuals and reach our maximum potential.
Unfortunately these same choices do not always exist for the developmentally disabled. In Greater Cincinnati and throughout Ohio, the developmentally disabled typically rely on financial assistance from the State for housing. This is a result of the fact that the developmentally disabled typically have very low incomes. The State of Ohio has chosen to encourage residential locations of 4 units, or less through the waiver program. As a result, the developmentally disabled do not have the choice to live in a residential setting of more than 4 residences and receive financial support from the State.
The purpose of BeauVita is to provide housing in a community setting of greater than 4 residences. The founders of BeauVita believe it is important to have housing in a small community setting, where the residents have opportunities to socialize, interact, and depend on each other. This community setting will prevent the isolation that many developmentally disabled experience, living in individual residences in the larger urban and suburban areas of the city
In addition to providing housing, BeauVita will also provide residential support services. At BeauVita the staff will work with residents to help identify their needs and then fashion a plan to help them reach their own personal goals.
Community/Residence
BeauVita will consist of one-story multi-unit buildings in a clustered residential setting. Each building will have shared kitchens, laundry, and living areas, and each residence will have its own living area and bathroom to facilitate independence and privacy. Each building will also include the following features:
- The buildings will be in a safe, secure setting with secure entrances to the outside.
- All buildings will be constructed with quality materials to provide safety, durability and long term maintenance
- All buildings will comply with the American Disabilities Act and will be handicap accessible
- All buildings will comply with local, state, and federal building, fire, and safety codes including smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
- Kitchens and equipment will be operationally safe. Sufficient storage will be provided for all residents’ food and equipment.
- Laundry facilities will be safe and accessible to all residents.
- Each residence will accomodate four to six residents.
Site Plan Sketch
![[Site Plan]](media/images/site_plan.jpg)
Resident Support Services
Persons who are developmentally disabled require a wide array of support services in order to function to their maximum potential and achieve their personal life goals. They will typically require some form of ongoing support throughout their lives. Support is most effective when it is consistent and yet individualized. At BeauVita the staff will work to create an individualized comprehensive plan for each resident. Initially some services may be provided on a contract basis utilizing outside agencies and service providers.
Once the BeauVita residential community becomes operational, there will be a director and staff to handle the day to day operations. Each building will have a “live-in” staff member who will assist the residents with their cooking, laundry, and housekeeping responsibilities. The residents will be encouraged to be as independent as possible and to properly maintain their homes, as well as the building. Since BeauVita is in the early developmental stages, this list of services is not complete.
At this time we anticipate the following additional services:
Transportation — Residents will be assisted with their individual transportation needs, including accessing public transportation, scheduling special transportation and understanding transportation options.
Habilitation — Services will be provided to assist residents with daily living skills, including financial management, food preparation, laundry, cleaning, use of communication equipment, personal hygiene, etc.
Public Services — People with developmental disabilities typically have very low incomes, and therefore rely heavily on public services. The staff will assist resident with referrals to advocacy groups, medical and dental services and entitlement programs for the poor and low income.
Health and Safety — Assistance will be provided to help individuals monitor their own medical needs such as scheduling medications and treatments. Also safety programs will be offered to all residents to educate them in “in home” and community safety.
Vocational Services — The staff will work with residents to direct them to vocational training and employment service in the community to enhance their opportunities for employment.
Recreation — Both group and individual recreational opportunities will be provided at BeauVita. Staff will also work with residents to coordinate access to community recreational support and opportunities.
Spiritual — Residents will be encouraged to pursue their individual spiritual or religious needs within their faith community. BeauVita is non-denominational.
Physical Care/Support — Some residents may need personal care support. The staff will work to link residents needs with community and government support and care.
Nutrition — The staff will assist residents in nutrition and healthy habits through educational and community programs, habilitation services and food and meal preparation.
Literacy Center — Assistance will be provided to residents to maintain and enhance literacy skills. BeauVita will utilize available staff or outside groups and agencies.
Integration — The developmentally disabled are often isolated from their community by lack of involvement and interaction. The goal of BeauVita is to prevent social isolation and enhance interaction through community services, advocacy groups, social events, clubs, religious organizations, etc.