by Gina Mazza
In a world where inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities are paramount, Community Living And Support Services (CLASS) stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment. It assists individuals with disabilities by providing information, referral and services ranging from independent living skills training to community-based case management for social, recreational, and residential supports.
Founded in 1951 by family members interested in seeing their children with disabilities have more options and opportunities in their lives, CLASS has evolved from its origins as United Cerebral Palsy of Pittsburgh to an independent organization dedicated to fostering a community where everyone belongs. It remains true to its foundational goal of helping individuals with disabilities work, play and live full lives in their communities.
To this end, CLASS offers a number of services that are very helpful to older adults and those with disabilities age in place and remain independent.
IN-HOME SUPPORT
Perhaps the most important part of remaining independent is being able to stay in one’s home. The person may, however, require some assistance to do so. CLASS’s Personal Assistance Services (PAS) can make all the difference by providing in-home help with personal hygiene care, walking and moving, basic exercise, meal preparation, light housekeeping and laundry, shopping and errands, medication reminders and escorts to appointments. Direct Care Workers are fully trained to provide care, handle emergencies, recognize abuse and neglect, navigate challenging situations, and maintain confidentiality.
For those dealing specifically with multiple sclerosis, the MSES Program offers specialized in-home exercise and wellness support. This wellness program provides range of motion exercises in addition to information and referral services.
For those needing more comprehensive care, CLASS’s Residential Services provide up to 24-hour support in homes throughout Allegheny and Westmoreland counties. Support is tailored to the needs of each individual.
TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT
As technology continues to develop at a rapid clip, CLASS has kept pace by integrating assistive tech support into its offerings in a variety of ways that make life easier for seniors and those with disabilities. Under the umbrella of TechOWL (Technology for Our Whole Lives), this initiative finds tools and technology for residents across Pennsylvania and connects individuals with an array the assistive technology that is vital for independence. TechOWL programs and services include:
Lending Library of low- and high-tech assistive technology solutions and more, along with demonstrations on how to use them, so people can try tech solutions before purchasing them.
Free Special Phone program for those who have difficulty hearing, talking, seeing, thinking or moving.
Good Use Program where anyone can donate or get free used equipment such as walkers and wheelchairs.
Affordable AT plan to help individuals pay for what they need.
Evaluations and recommendations to match one’s needs with tools and technology.
3D printers and custom devices to get something made.
Free tablets to help anyone stay connected to healthcare and other vital services.
TechOWL is affiliated with the Temple University College of Education and Human Development Institute on Disabilities. It can be reached by calling Rebekah Nesbitt at (412) 683-7100, by email at rnesbitt@classcommunity.org, or by visiting techOWLpa.org.
BRAIN-INJURY SUPPORT
“Recently, we have been focusing on enhancing services and support for individuals with brain injuries, as we are seeing more of a need for that in the community,” comments Alissa Freese, Grant and Development Associate for CLASS. “CLASS has always supported people with brain injuries, but we are continuing to evaluate what programs and services we can expand or offer.”
One such offering is a collaborative event, “Charting Your Course: Navigating Community and Embracing Change After Brain Injury.” It will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 29 at COhatch Southside, located at 2681 Sidney Street. The conference is geared toward survivors of brain injuries, including older adults who may have had a stroke, fall or accident. The keynote speaker Al Condeluci, PhD, will discuss practical strategies for living life to the fullest after experiencing a brain injury. Register by calling CLASS (below) or visiting ChartingYourCourse.Eventbrite.com.
CLASS also offers specialized services for individuals with brain injuries and other neurological conditions through the Structured Day Program, which focuses on developing social, cognitive, and behavioral skills necessary to re-enter the community.
OTHER SERVICES
Because employment is a critical aspect of independence and self-worth, CLASS’s Employment Support Specialists are dedicated to guiding individuals in their pursuit of employment by addressing barriers and aligning job opportunities with a person’s skills, talents, and interests.
At the heart of CLASS’s offerings are its Centre Services, where individuals can develop essential skills through participation in various classes ranging from Financial Management and Reading to Computer Skills and Domestic Skills. Individuals also explore different aspects of the community and learn how to schedule and uses transportation, while visiting the different resources that the communities offer. By engaging in these opportunities, participants can gain the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate their daily lives more independently.
As a representative of PA Link, CLASS uses this clearinghouse to provide information and referral services about resources in every community in one accessible, trusted place. Representatives from the PA Link provide assistance to people with disabilities and older adults to locate resources in their communities, serving as a single point of entry for access to long-term support programs and benefits within Allegheny, Beaver, Fayette, Greene and Washington counties.
“CLASS remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering people with disabilities and creating inclusive communities,” says Melva Fair, Chief Executive Officer for CLASS. “By providing a choice and a voice in their services, CLASS ensures that individuals with disabilities can live in and become a part of their communities. As the organization continues to grow and adapt, our goal remains unchanged: to support people with disabilities in living full, independent lives within their communities by working with them to come up with solutions for what they need to do that.”
CLASS is located along South Braddock Avenue in Swissvale. To learn more about CLASS and to begin the process of engaging with local resources, call the CLASS Community Engagement Specialist at (412) 683- 7100, ext. 2178, visit classcommunity.org, or use the Trudy chatbox (see sidebar). No referral is needed to access services.