Day Program

Empowering Individuals, Enriching Lives

Welcome to the Hearten Day Program! Our mission goes beyond offering a safe and nurturing environment for adults with developmental disabilities. We are committed to empowering each participant to unlock their potential and acquire essential life skills. Our program is approved and funded by NJ DDD/Medicaid.

What's unique about Hearten?

Hearten is composed of a young and enthusiastic client base. The participants in our day program are recent graduates who are transitioning into adulthood. Hearten is dedicated to supporting them during this challenging time.

We provide personalized support tailored to each individual's needs, including medical, behavioral, and physical requirements. Our program is staffed by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT), and a team of professionals trained in both behavioral and medical care.

How to know if Hearten is for you?

Selecting a day program for adults with developmental disabilities requires careful consideration to ensure it meets the individual's needs, preferences, and long-term goals. Here’s a checklist to help you determine if the Hearten Day Program is suitable for your loved one:

1. Understand the Individual’s Needs and Goals

Skill Development: Are you looking for a program that focuses on life skills, job training, or recreational activities?

Social Interaction: Does the individual benefit from group settings and structured socialization?
Support Level: Does the individual have specific medical, behavioral, or physical support needs?
Community-Based Programs: Are you interested in a program that integrates participants into the broader community through volunteering, outings, and job training?
Behavioral Programs: Are you seeking specialized services, such as behavioral support?
Recreational Programs: Do you want a program that centers on arts, crafts, music, fitness, and other leisure activities?

2. Evaluate the Program’s Features

Staff Qualifications: The staff at Hearten are trained in first aid, CPR, behavioral intervention, crisis management, and working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
Staff-to-Participant Ratio: Hearten offers a favorable ratio that allows for more personalized attention.
Accessibility: Our program is wheelchair accessible and accommodates sensory or behavioral needs.
Safety and Security: Hearten has comprehensive safety protocols, emergency plans, and staff supervision.

3. Visit the Program (tours welcome)

Observe Activities: You are welcome to watch how participants interact with staff and each other.
Ask Questions: Speak with the program director or staff to learn about their philosophy, daily schedule, and behavior management strategies.
Environment: Experience firsthand the vibrant atmosphere that encourages curiosity and connection.
Cleanliness: Discover our clean and inviting facility, thoughtfully designed to inspire learning and foster engagement.

What is a day program?

A day program is a structured program that provides activities, care, and support for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities during the day. Participants attend the program for six hours and then return to their homes afterward.

What are the benefits of a day program?

Developmental Disability Day Programs offer a wide range of benefits designed to enhance the quality of life, independence, and social integration of individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD). Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Skill Development

Life Skills Training: Participants learn practical skills such as cooking, cleaning, personal hygiene, money management, and transportation use.
Job and Vocational Training: Programs may provide job readiness skills, workplace behavior training, and support in finding and maintaining employment.

2. Social Interaction and Community Integration

Building Relationships: Participants engage in group activities that encourage socialization, teamwork, and friendship-building.
Community Engagement: Many programs organize outings to local community centers, libraries, or volunteer events, promoting a sense of belonging.

3. Structured Routine

A predictable daily schedule helps participants develop time management and organizational skills while reducing anxiety associated with unpredictability.

4. Recreational and Leisure Activities

Programs often offer art, music, exercise, games, and other leisure activities that enhance creativity, improve physical health, and reduce stress.

5. Independence & Autonomy

Participants are encouraged to make decisions, set goals, and take on responsibilities, fostering a sense of independence and self-confidence.

6. Emotional & Mental Well-Being

Therapeutic Support: Some programs offer access to counselors, therapists, or behavioral support to manage emotional challenges.
Peer Support: Connecting with others who face similar challenges can provide a sense of understanding and solidarity.

7. Safety & Supervision

Programs provide a safe, supportive environment where participants are supervised by trained staff who understand their unique needs.

8. Caregiver Respite

By attending day programs, participants' family members or caregivers get a break to focus on work, rest, or personal time, reducing caregiver burnout.

9. Advocacy & Self-Advocacy

Participants may learn self-advocacy skills, empowering them to express their needs, rights, and preferences in various settings.

10. Enhanced Quality of Life

Overall, these programs help participants lead more fulfilling, active, and independent lives by addressing their social, emotional, vocational, and recreational needs.