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TRANSCRIPT
A Transition Guide
for Parents
A list and description of agenciesavailable for transition services
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in the Centre RegionTABLE OF CONTENTS
Planning for Life after High School 3Agency Involvement Begins in High School 4Centre County MH/MR 5Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs Bureau of Autism Services 8Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation 9Parent Questions and Answers on Accessing Agencies 11Parent Questions and Answers on Employment 12Student Questions and Answers on Employment 13Local and State Agencies 14Advocacy Resources 25Educational and Training Opportunity Resources 27Employment Assistance Resources 28Financial Assistance Resources 30Health Assistance Resources 31Housing Resources 32School District Special Education Contact Information 34Support Groups in Centre County 36Transportation Resources 38
The information contained in this booklet is accurate as of February 2011.
This resource guide is a result of a collaborative effort among the Central Intermediate Unit #10, the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Centre County MH/MR, Penn State University, and local school districts. The purpose of this guide is to help parents of children with mental illness or developmental disabilities plan for life after high school.
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PLANNING FOR LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL
A RESOURCE GUIDE FOR PARENTS
What is going to happen to your child or loved one after high school graduation? Where will he/she live? What about work?
Many people are not sure how to help their child. The key word in all of this is transition. This is the time when your child goes from free school programs to the eligibility requirements and waiting lists of the county and state agencies. While graduation may be as much as six years away, it is not too early to develop a transition plan for your child. If you have not already done so, it is essential that you begin working with representatives from your child’s school, workers from county and state agencies and most importantly, your child, to develop a transition plan.
Hopefully, this Resource Guide will assist you in your planning and answer your questions about the transition process. It is a tool that can help you make sense of, and navigate through the system.
Your child’s teacher, his/her county Mental Health/Mental Retardation (MH/MR) Supports Coordinator/case manager, Bureau of Autism (BAS) Supports Coordinator, and/or counselor from the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) are professionals who can also answer questions about this process.
The more you know about transition, the greater your ability to access critical services your child will need to move from a structured school environment to the independence of adult living.
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AGENCY INVOLVEMENT BEGINS IN HIGH SCHOOLWorking with community agencies is important when your child and his/her IEP team are planning for what he/she will do after high school. It is important that the connections with agencies be clearly written in the IEP, based on the decisions made by the team
IEP teams must:
1. Identify the appropriate and necessary community agencies.
2. Invite them to participate in the transition IEP.
3. Ensure that the community agencies involved in the transition plan are doing their part.
Knowing who to contact and what agencies can do to help your son or daughter is not always an easy task.
There are two agencies that provide the majority of the funding for services your child may need after high school. These agencies are: the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) and Centre County Office of Mental Health/Mental Retardation (MH/MR). Receiving any services from these agencies is based on your child’s disability and needs. The Adult Autism Waiver is administered by the Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs Bureau of Autism Services (BAS).
Parents must realize that their son or daughter may not automatically qualify for services from these agencies. Eligibility will need to be determined. OVR and MH/MR have different eligibility requirements and assessment procedures. It is likely that your child may receive services from both agencies.
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CENTRE COUNTY MH/MR
420 Holmes StreetBellefonte, PA 16823
Agency Contact Information814-355-6786http://co.centre.pa.us/561.aspCarol Waltz, AdministratorMichelle Henry, Assistant Administrator of Mental Health ServicesDeb Tate, Assistant Administrator of Mental Retardation Services
Services for Persons with Mental Illness
Centre County MH/MR identifies, evaluates, treats and refers adults and children with mental illness/behavioral or emotional disorders. The Centre County MH/MR Office, also known as the Base Service Unit (BSU), has five psychiatrists on staff with four that treat adults and one that treats children. The BSU refers consumers to outside providers for individual therapy, medication management, partial hospitalization and psychiatric rehabilitation. The BSU provides all levels of case management including service, resource coordination (RC) and intensive case management (ICM). Centre County Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol (D&A) are contracted providers of targeted case management (ICM and RC), outpatient psychiatric services, and D&A level of care assessments under managed care (Community Care Behavioral Health).
A case manager will work with you to ensure that you receive mental health services and supports and are linked to community resources available to assist you in your recovery. Case managers perform similar functions and vary in their frequency of contact. Individuals can work within the continuum of case management services depending on their level of need. Centre County BSU and Strawberry Fields, Inc. provides case management to eligible residents of Centre County. The three levels of case management are: Service Case Management, Resource Coordination (RC) and Intensive Case Management (ICM).
Service Case Management: Conducts intake as an entry point to mental health services Refers individuals to services and monitors progress Typically meets face to face with individuals utilizing services at least one time per year and is available for
phone contact as needed
Resource Coordination: Links individuals to mental health services and community resources Assists individuals to develop goals they hope to achieve with the support of the RC Meets with individuals as needed or at a minimum of every two months
Intensive Case Management: Links individuals to mental health services and community resources Assists each individual to develop goals they hope to achieve with the support of the ICM Meets with individuals as needed or at a minimum of once every two weeks
For Resource Coordination and Intensive Case Management, individual recovery progress is reviewed on an on-going basis. The goal of these services is to enhance each individual’s independence within the community.
*ALL CASE MANAGEMENT SERVICES ARE CONFIDENTIAL*
Services provided by the Centre County MH/MR Office:
Service Case management Resource Coordination (Children’s resource coordination provided by Strawberry Fields)
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Intensive Case Management (also provided by Strawberry Fields) Psychiatric Services
Services contracted by the county with other providers:
Community Residential Rehabilitation program (CRR)Residential service for consumers of Mental Health services Providers – Community Services Group and Strawberry Fields
Fairweather LodgeResidential service for consumers of Mental Health Services; residents share a home and a businessProvider: Strawberry Fields
Crisis Services24- hour anonymous crisis phone line and mobile assessmentsProvider – Centre County CAN HELP
Outpatient Serviceso Psychiatric Services
Medication managementProviders: Penn State Psychological Clinic and Universal Community Behavioral Health (UCBH)
o Individual TherapyProviders: Penn State Psychological Clinic, Universal Community Behavioral Health
o Peer SupportProvider: Universal Community Behavioral Health
o Wrap-around servicesServices for children under age 21 that wrap around existing servicesProviders: Universal Community Behavioral Health, Northwestern Human Services, Cen-Clear Child Services, and Community Services Group
Inpatient ServicesCare for persons needing acute Psychiatric HospitalizationProviders: Mount Nittany Medical Center and The Meadows Psychiatric Center
Rehabilitation ServicesPsychiatric and vocational rehabilitationProviders: Skills of Central PA, Inc., Opportunity Center Clubhouse, and Community Services Group Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program
In Home ServicesServices for youth under 21 to help learn independent living skills and soft skillsProviders: Family Intervention Crisis Services (FICS) Independent Living Program (IL Program)
Support Serviceso Support for Mental Health Consumers and their families
Providers: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Services for Persons with Mental Retardation
The Centre County Office of Mental Health/Mental Retardation (MH/MR) is part of a statewide county-operated program of community-based services. The office is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and assisting individuals in need of mental retardation services in the community. The MH/MR office receives the federal and state funding to operate mental retardation services in Centre County by contracting with qualified providers. The Base Service Unit (BSU) is the part of the MH/MR office that provides case management services. Every person with an open mental retardation case is assigned a case manager who is called a Supports Coordinator (SC).
It is important that your child have an open case with MH/MR for a number of reasons. Your assigned Supports Coordinator can assist you with accessing the appropriate services and community resources necessary to facilitate your child’s transition process. Having individuals registered with MH/MR also allows the office to address current service needs and plan for future service needs.
How Do I Qualify for Services?
If your child has a developmental delay or disability and is in need of services you can contact the MH/MR office to set up an intake interview. An SC (Supports Coordinator) will come to your home and assess your child’s qualifications for services. To be eligible for services, there must be documentation of a full-scale IQ score of 70 or lower and a
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corresponding diagnosis of mental retardation prior to the individual’s 22nd birthday. Parents are welcome to present any documentation that indicates a diagnosis of mental retardation during the first meeting with your SC.
When Should I Get Involved With MH/MR?
It is recommended that you do not wait to make contact with MH/MR. The earlier you and your child register for services, the smoother the transition will be.
Services provided by the county:
Intake/Case ManagementTo access needs and monitor servicesProviders – Centre County Base Service Unit
Targeted Service ManagementModerately intense case work to help people through the maze of servicesProviders – Centre County Base Service Unit
Family Support ServicesSupport for the family to maintain a family member with mental retardation at homeProviders – Centre County Base Service Unit
Services contracted by the county with other providers:
Adult Development TrainingRecreation programs, adult development activities, and independent living programsProviders – Sunny Days, Skills of Central PA, Inc., Clinton County Community Connections, Allegheny Lutheran Social Ministries, Strawberry Fields, Inc.
Rehabilitation/TrainingVocational services, supported employment, and sheltered employmentProviders – Skills of Central PA, Inc., The Arc of Centre County
Residential ProgramsA range of residential services from minimal to intensely staffed and supervised programsProviders – Community Services Group, Individual Family & Community Services, Keystone Service Systems, Northwestern Human Services, Skills of Central PA, Inc., Strawberry Fields, Inc., The Arc of Centre County
Participant Directed ServicesAn indirect service that facilitates individuals/families in the employment and management of individual providers of their choiceProviders: United Cerebral Palsy of Central PA, Inc. and Acumen Fiscal Agent LLC.
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PENNSYLVANIA OFFICE OF DEVELOPMENTAL PROGRAMSBUREAU OF AUTISM SERVICEShttp://www.dpw.state.pa.us/foradults/autismservices/index.htm
Adult Autism Waiver
According the Bureau of Autism Services (BAS) website, “The Adult Autism Waiver is one of two programs in Pennsylvania specifically designed to help adults with an autism spectrum disorder participate in their communities in the way they want. This statewide waiver program is designed to serve 300 individuals 21 years of age and older with an autism spectrum disorder.” Services for individuals under the age of 21 with an autism spectrum disorder are usually funded through Medical Assistance or private insurance.
Eligibility Criteria for the Adult Autism Waiver Must have a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder; this includes:
o Autistic Disordero Pervasive Development Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)o Asperger Syndromeo Childhood Disengretitive Disordero Retts Disorder
Must meet the income and resource limits for Medical Assistance and Payment of Long Term Care Services Must have substantial functional limitations that are likely to continue indefinitely in three or more of the major life
activities listed below. These functional limitations, which must be evident before the person reaches the age of 22, include limitations in:
o self-careo understanding and use of receptive and expressive languageo learningo mobilityo self-directiono capacity for independent living
To request an application for the Adult Autism Waiver, call 1-866-539-7689 and leave a message with the following information: The name of the person who wishes to apply Telephone number Address County of residence If you are calling on the behalf of the person who wishes to apply also leave your name and daytime phone
number.
This link is to a document on the BAS website that compares Medicaid programs that serve adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders:http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/ucmprd/groups/webcontent/documents/communication/s_000918.pdf
The other program in Pennsylvania specifically designed to help adults with an autism spectrum disorder is the Adult Community Autism Program or ACAP. This program is currently only available in Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, and Lancaster counties.
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PENNSYLVANIA OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL REHABILATION1130 12TH AvenueSuite 500Altoona, PA 16601
Agency Contact Information866-695-7673Pamela [email protected] Address: www.dli.state.pa.us Keyword: OVRHours: Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:30pm
Eligibility CriteriaAny person with a disability whose functional limitations make it difficult to obtain or keep a job may be eligible for OVR services.
Referral ProcessThe student’s teacher or the school’s transition coordinator can put the student and their family in touch with OVR at the proper time by making a referral. Parents and students should inform school staff if they want to discuss a referral to OVR. In addition, parents and students can call OVR directly at 814-946-7240 or toll free at 800-442-6343.
Services Provided: Diagnostic services Vocational evaluation Counseling Physical and mental restoration services Job training, job placement Support services
Fee for ServicesDiagnostic, vocational evaluation, counseling and job placement is free. Individuals may have to pay for some services depending on their income.
Other Important InformationOVR counselors can meet with students and their families at the student’s school, home, or another convenient location. Please note that another part of OVR, the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services (page 26 of this guide) provides these same services to persons with blindness or significant visual loss.
How Can OVR Help Me?
The Pennsylvania OVR provides services to people who have disabilities if the disability interferes with the individual’s ability to get or keep a job. OVR has 21 district offices around the state. The Altoona District Office covers the counties of Blair, Bedford, Centre, Fulton, and Huntingdon. There are 23 professional rehabilitation counselors in the Altoona Office who provide adults and school students to access the required and appropriate vocational services based on their individual needs.
Available Services
Vocational Counseling – The OVR counselor assigned to the high school your child attends can help you with making decisions about the type of work that may be possible and appropriate for them after graduation. The OVR
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counselor does not replace your child’s teacher or guidance counselor, but they may be able to make suggestions to you as part of the transition team.
Testing and Work Evaluation – If testing or evaluation is needed to help you and your child decide upon an employment goal after high school, OVR may be able to arrange and pay for this. While OVR des not pay for testing that is normally done through the school system, they may be able to help fund testing that the school cannot provide. OVR operates a large rehabilitation center in Johnstown called the Hiram G. Andrews Center where your child might go to have his/her abilities and interests evaluated. Such an evaluation involves staying in a dorm room at the Center for about two weeks. Ask your child’s rehabilitation counselor for more details.
Medical Services – Sometimes a person might need certain kinds of medical treatment or special equipment before being ready to work. If an individual needs specialized medical treatment or equipment before being “work ready”, OVR may consider paying for services such as speech therapy, physical therapy, surgery; and/or therapeutic equipment including, wheelchairs, hearing aids, braces, etc. OVR does not pay for these services if they are available through the school or your own insurance coverage.
Vocational Training – OVR can help with the cost of many kinds of training after high school should your child want it and if that training is necessary for employment. OVR operates its rehabilitation center in Johnstown, which provides many types of training and OVR can also help with costs at many other business schools, trade schools, and colleges. Your child’s OVR counselor can provide you with a more detailed description of how OVR can assist with training after high school.
Job Placement – OVR’s purpose is to assist people with disabilities to prepare for and obtain competitive employment. There are several ways in which OVR can help your child enter employment whether or not he/she attends other training after school.
How Can OVR Help With Job Placement and Training?
Job Coaching – If your child needs help in learning a job, OVR may pay for a job coach to be present on the work site The job coach will provide needed orientation, training and support to your child to ensure that they are able to carry out their duties and responsibilities to the satisfaction of their employer. Skills Employment Service and Nittany Employment Services (part of the Arc of Centre County) have job coaches on staff who can work with your child on the job with OVR paying for these services. OVR pays for these job coaching services in the beginning. When your child becomes more independent and needs less job coaching, the county MH/MR office will pay for the services if there is funding available to do so. If your child receives job coaching while still in high school, the school district pays for the coaching. OVR does not pay for job coaching until after your child leaves school.
The Opportunity Network for Employment (ONE) - OVR refers people to the ONE Program at Penn State if the student wants to seek employment on the campus. ONE is a program operated by Penn State’s Office of Human Resources to help people with disabilities explore employment opportunities at the University.
On-the-Job Training (OJT) – Another way OVR can help your child is to arrange for him/her to be trained on the job. This is different from the OVR-funded job coaching described above. With OJT, an employee of the company will provide the actual training, not a job coach. OVR can offer to reimburse the employer one-half of what your child is earning for up to three months while he/she is receiving OJT.
Tax Credits – There are tax credits and other savings employers can receive if they hire people referred by OVR. The OVR counselor knows about these savings and can explain them to the employer.
When Should I Get Involved With OVR?
The OVR district office in Altoona has assigned a rehabilitation counselor to each high school in their five-county area. This counselor is responsible for working with students who are referred to OVR by the teacher, transition coordinator, guidance counselor, school nurse or any other staff member at the school. The OVR counselor usually begins working with the student some time during their last two years of school, depending upon their employment or training goals after high school. The OVR counselor is part of a team which helps to plan with the student, the parents, and the school what needs to happen after high school to reach a satisfactory employment goal. The student’s teacher or the
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school’s transition coordinator can put you and your child in touch with OVR at the proper time by making a referral to OVR. Parents and students should inform school staff if they want to discuss the referral to OVR.
PARENT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ON ACCESSING AGENCIES1. Why do I need to be involved with county and state agencies?
It is important to be involved with state and county agencies because they are very resourceful and they will assist you in obtaining needed supports and services. Transition time can be stressful on a family and those particular agencies would be helpful to answer the questions that you may have. They also will help you decide what services would be most appropriate for your child by providing information on those services. Some service providers require referrals from state and county agencies in order to begin receiving services.
2. When should I get involved with county and state agencies?Involvement with these agencies should occur as soon as possible. Students generally become involved with OVR two years prior to leaving school. Your child’s teacher will know if a referral should be made before that. Involvement with the county MH/MR office should occur as soon as possible.
3. What services are available?The types of services available are employment services, job coaching, mobility training, housing, day services, post-secondary training, and recreation.
4. Who will pay for services?Depending on eligibility criteria, your child may receive services through the county Mental Health/Mental Retardation office or OVR. However, if at the time of your need, funding for services is not available in the budget, you have the option of placing your child put on an agency waiting list, or paying for the services privately.
5. Why would OVR need to know my income?OVR needs to know your income so they can determine if the individual or his/her family needs to pay for part of the services. Income will be reviewed yearly. Some OVR services are based on income and some are not. Speak with your child’s OVR counselor to learn how income is evaluated.
6. Why would MH/MR need to know my income?Although there may be no cost for your services, it is a state requirement that your income be evaluated yearly. Cost of services is based on a sliding fee schedule.
7. How will my child access services?Call the County Office of MH/MR and make an appointment to register for supports and services (814-355-6786). Call the OVR office at 1-800-442-6343.
8. What happens if I choose not to use county and state agencies?The above-mentioned supports and services would have to be obtained privately at a possible cost to your family.
9. What happens if no funding is available for services requested of agencies?If sufficient funding and capacity for service requested of MH/MR is not available, your child’s Supports Coordinator/Case Manager will do one of the following:
o for those individuals open to receive mental retardation services, they will offer the opportunity to complete a Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services (PUNS) form and place your child on the waiting list. (Completing the PUNS form helps the county and the state know the number of people who are waiting for supports and services, what kinds of services they need and the urgency of their need.)
o for those individuals open to receive mental health services, they will place the individual on a waiting list.
o for those individuals open for mental health or mental retardation services, they will help identify other types of community supports and services that would help you and your child while you are waiting.
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OVR rarely has funding shortages, but if they do occur, the OVR counselor will explain how the situation will be handled or resolved.
Parent Questions and Answers on Employment1. What identification will my child need to get a job?
Your child will need to have a Social Security card, as well as a Pennsylvania I.D. card or a driver’s license. Pennsylvania Identification Cards are issued to non-driving residents for identification purposes instead of a Pennsylvania Driver’s license. There is a $13.50 charge to get a Pennsylvania Identification Card, which can be applied for at the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDot) Drivers License Center, 812 West College Avenue in Pleasant Gap. Additional information can be obtained at http://www.dmv.state.pa.us/pdotforms/dl_forms/dl-54a.pdf
2. Why do I want my child to work?Work is an essential part of an independent life. Work can lead to personal happiness and self-fulfillment, financial stability, and value in the eyes of the community. By pursuing a career, youth and young adults can bring their skills, interests, and abilities into their work life.
3. Will employment affect SSI benefits?Yes. Your child’s SSI benefits may be reduced but BEING EMPLOYED WILL RESULT IN A HIGHER MONTHLY INCOME. To learn more about how your child’s benefits may change, contact Goodwill Keystone Area and Work Incentive Planning Assistance Services (WIPA) for benefits counseling.Please refer to page # 16 for more information.
4. What job choices does my child have?Youth and young adults can pursue any job in which they are interested. They can choose to pursue a job based on interests, skills, and abilities. The youth/young adult’s school and service agencies will work with him/her to explore interests and abilities and to seek appropriate job placement.
5. Who makes choices about my child’s job?When he/she becomes an adult, your child will be the primary decision-maker regarding employment issues. Your young adult may be assisted in these decisions by you, other members of your family, and friends. School and adult services agencies can advise him/her regarding options, but will not make decisions for him/her.
6. What happens if my child has trouble on his/her job?A young adult is placed on a job based on their interests and skills, but sometimes a particular job may not be the best match. The county and state agency will work with you and your young adult to ensure a good match between the job and your young adult’s interests and skills. In the event there are problems or issues on the job, that same team will explore appropriate solutions focusing on success for your child.
Student Questions and Answers on Employment
1. Who picks my job?You do. Your family and friends can help you make decisions about the type of job you would like. Your teachers and other agency staff will help explore possibilities with you so you make the best decisions possible but they will not make decisions for you.
2. Why should I work?There are a number of benefits you can receive by working. You will make money, be more independent and possibly help others. Work can also be fun! You can meet new people, make friends, and participate in tasks that you enjoy.
3. How do I get to work?
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If you don’t have your own driver’s license or your own car, there are several other options to get to work. Sometimes people pick jobs that are close to their home so they are able to walk to work. If you cannot walk to work, one choice is using the public bus system. If you need assistance with transportation, please contact your Supports Coordinator/Case Manager, OVR counselor, or your classroom teacher.
4. How do I get a job?You will need to look for a job that is interesting to you and one for which you have the skills. Please involve your Supports Coordinator/Case Manager, OVR counselor, or teacher in your job search.
5. How do I find out what kind of job I want?The first step to finding the job you want is career exploration and learning about different jobs. Next, you should complete a career assessment, or tests that match your interests and abilities to jobs that would be suitable and enjoyable for you. If you are still in high school, talk with your IEP team about options. After leaving high school, talk with your Supports Coordinator/Case Manager or OVR counselor.
6. How do I dress for work?Each employer has different dress code requirements depending on the job you are assigned. For example, some employers require employees to wear a uniform, while other employers give employees more choices based on specific colors or styles. When you are at a job interview always ask what dress code you will be required to follow.
7. Where do I go to get an I.D. card if I don’t have a driver’s license?If you live in Centre County, you should go to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Driver License Center, located at 812 West College Avenue in Pleasant Gap. PennDOT will issue a photo identification (I.D.) card for people who don’t have a driver’s license. You must apply in person for a photo I.D. card. There is a $13.50 fee to obtain a photo I.D. card. For more information go to: http://www.dmv.state.pa.us/pdotforms/dl_forms/dl-54a.pdf
8. Why do I need an I.D. card?Federal law mandates that employees verify the employment eligibility status of newly hired employees. An I.D. card helps you complete this process.
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Local and State Agencies
The Arc of Centre County1840 North Atherton StreetState College, PA 16803www.taocc.org
Agency Contact InformationCindy A. Mayes, Director of Community Programming814-238-1444 (ext. 301)[email protected]
Eligibility CriteriaPrimary diagnosis of mental retardation
Referral ProcessAll referrals must be made through Centre County MH/MR.
Services ProvidedThe Arc offers community-based residential programs that provide 24 hour supervision. Residential support is also provided in private homes to enable the individual to remain in his/her own home.
Fee for ServicesThere is no fee for services, however, individuals residing in 24-hour supervision programs do pay room and board charges.
Other Important InformationThe Centre County MH/MR Office should be contacted for information on eligibility criteria and availability of services.
Center for Independent Living of North Central Pennsylvania210 Market StreetWilliamsport, PA 17701
Agency Contact Information570-327-9070 or toll free 800-984-7492TTY 570-327-5254 or toll free TTY 866-842-5426570-327-8610 faxWeb Address: www.cilncp.org
Eligibility CriteriaA person with a disability; no age requirements.
Referral ProcessPlease contact the Center for Independent Living directly for more information on eligibility requirements.
Services Provided: Independent living skills training – cooking, budgeting, etc. Attendant care Assistive technology Advocacy Information referral and much more
Fee for ServicesThere is no fee for services.
Cen-Clear Child Services, Inc.
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R.R. 3 Box 106 Philipsburg, PA 16866Phone: 814-342-5678 or 1-800-525-5437www.cenclear.org
Eligibility CriteriaCen-Clear Child Services, Inc. provides services to children from birth to age 21 who have qualifying mental health diagnoses and their families. Children who use these services must have Medical Assistance.
Referral ProcessCen-Clear Child Services, Inc accepts self referrals and referrals from Centre County MH/MR.
Services ProvidedCen-Clear Services provides Centre County with Children's Health and Mental Health Preservation Services (CHAMPS), Family Based Mental Health Services, and Maintaining Strengths Program. CHAMPS provides expanded behavioral health services to qualifying children. Behavior Specialist consultation, mobile therapy, and Therapeutic Staff Support are offered. Services are designed to complement other services received by the child. Children from birth to age 21 with a mental health diagnosis (with documented mental necessity) and who possess a Medical Assistance (MA) Card are eligible to receive services. If the individual does not have an MA card, they are eligible for one if testing yields a qualifying disability). Family Based Mental Health Services provides services necessary to enable children and their families to access a safe and secure environment that promotes keeping families together and reduces the need for psychiatric hospitalizations or residential services for the children. The program is voluntary and services are team delivered. The services are designed to be short term and highly intensive, but the length of services varies based on the needs of the family. The Maintaining Strengths Program’s main objectives are to strengthen and maintain the family, improve coping skills, teach family members to care for their child/adolescent, and to serve as an advocate for the child/adolescent. It enables parents/caregivers to care for their mentally ill or emotionally disturbed children/adolescents at home. This treatment model involves intensive family therapy services. The clinician’s main focus is with the entire family system. The main focus of treatment is with the child/adolescent and family strengths. This program is a step down from Family Based Mental Health or BHRS Wraparound services. It is a step up from traditional outpatient programs.
Fee for ServicesThere is no fee for these services as they are paid by Medical Assistance.
Centre County Assistance Office2580 Park Center BoulevardState College, PA 16801
Agency Contact Information814-863-6024 or toll free 800-355-6024814-689-1356 faxWeb Address: www.dpw.state.pa.us
Eligibility CriteriaEligibility criteria vary greatly for each program. If a family is in need, please file an application with our office.
Referral Process On line – DPW online services: https:// www.humanservices.state.pa.us/compass Walk-in Fax-in Mail-in
Services Provided Cash assistance Food stamps Medical assistance LIHEAP Energy assistance
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Fee for ServicesNone
Centre County CAN HELP132 The Meadows DriveCentre Hall, PA 168281-800-643-5432 (available 24-7)
Eligibility CriteriaThis program is available to anyone who needs it.
Services ProvidedThe CAN HELP line, operated by The Meadows Psychiatric Center, provides mental health crisis intervention, supportive counseling, referrals to other agencies and mental health and drug and alcohol education. Services are accessible by telephone, walk-in assessment or mobile crisis intervention in the community
Fee for ServicesThere is no fee for services. Centre County MH/MR contracts with The Meadows Psychiatric Center to provide this service.
Community Services GroupContact information:Wrap-around program1050 Benner Pike State College, PA 16801814-861-7001
Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program901 University Drive, Suite 1, State College, PA 16801Phone: 272-0331Fax: 272-0336
Community Rehabilitation Program (CRR)614 Locust LaneState College, PA 16801 Phone: 814- 861-0617 Fax: (814) 861-0616
Eligibility CriteriaPlease contact Community Services Group (CSG) directly for more information regarding eligibility for services.
Referral ProcessCSG accepts self referrals and referrals from Centre County MH/MR for its BHRS Wrap-around program. It accepts referrals from the Centre County MH/MR for its Community Residential Rehabilitation (CRR) Program and its Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program.
Services ProvidedCSG provides BHRS Wrap-around services to individuals under age 21. The Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program is less intensive than partial hospitalization and provides skill development and support with tasks of daily living. The focus is on supporting individuals to achieve the goals they identify within key psychiatric rehabilitation domains that include living, illness and wellness, education, social, and vocational. Its Community Residential Rehabilitation Program provides individuals with mental illness the opportunity to improve their daily living skills and become more integrated into the community. While in a CRR, individuals learn to live more independently, with less structure and assistance. The staff members are trained in assisting individuals to re-adjust to life as independent members of the community.
Fee for ServicesNone
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Family Intervention Crisis Services (FICS) Independent Living Program (IL Program) 310 W. Linn St. Bellefonte, PA 16823;Mollie FunkIL Program Director (814)355-3807 ext. 231http://fics1988.com/Centre.html
Eligibility CriteriaIndividuals in this program must have been in a Children and Youth Placement on or after the age of 16
Referral ProcessAll referrals for this program come from a Children and Youth case manager or Juvenile Probation case manager.
Services ProvidedThe program offers a wide variety of treatment services that are structured around each youth’s individual needs. Skills are taught through a variety of means including the use of packets, workbooks, individual sessions, group sessions, and role modeling. The program covers two areas of needs, “hard skills” and “soft skills.” Hard skills include, but are not limited to the teaching of areas such as banking, apartment hunting, job seeking skills, budgeting, and educational planning. Soft skills include, but are not limited to anger management, parenting skills, problem solving skills, goal-oriented behaviors, and interpersonal communication. Youth work their way through a level system with stipend money available to them upon successfully completing the requirements for each level in the program. The IL Counselors work with the youth and service providers in coordinating any additional services including housing, education, and mental health services in order to provide each youth the ability to meet their goals. The IL Program is designed for each youth to work at his own pace. Services are provided in the home, placement, office, school, or community. Frequency of sessions depends on what level the youth is on and varies from weekly to an as needed basis. Distance of the youth may also alter the frequency of services.
Fee for servicesThere is no fee for services.
Goodwill Keystone Area Work Incentive Planning Assistance Service (WIPA) Goodwill Keystone AreaWork Incentive Planning Assistance Services (WIPA) 1300 Benner PikeState College, PA 16801Linda Jacka-Frantz, Community Work Incentives [email protected] Free: 866-541-7005 X3Fax: 814-355-1144Covering Centre, Clearfield, and Clinton Counties and 11 other counties to the North and to the EastWeb Address: http://www.yourgoodwill.org/programs/work_incentives.php?subsection=Youth
Eligibility Criteria: MUST be receiving SSDI/SSI MUST be between the ages of 14 and 64 MUST be interested in working or already working
Referral ProcessAnyone can refer or call for information.
Services Provided Information and referral Training staff and consumers on SSA programs Individualized counseling on SSA benefits for people who receive SSDI/SSI
Any Fee for Service:None
*By providing correct information about SSA programs, people with disabilities will be able to make more informed decisions on employment and we hope to dispel many myths and fears about employment.*
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The Meadows Psychiatric Center132 The Meadows DriveCentre Hall, PA 16828364-2161 or 1-800-641-7529www.themeadows.net
Eligibility Criteria All are eligible for their service
Referral Process The Meadows Psychiatric Center accepts self referrals, referrals from family/friends, and referrals from other service providers, including Centre County MH/MR.
Services ProvidedThe Meadows is a 101 bed acute inpatient psychiatric hospital for children age 4 through older adults. The Assessment and Referral center is staffed 24/7 by intake counselors who can evaluate individual needs and provide assistance at no cost to the individual. Patients who require emergency admission are served in separate units according to age: Children, Adolescent, Adult, and Stabilization Units. Units are staffed with 24/7 nursing and mental health technicians to meet patient needs. Discharge is coordinated with continuing care providers and taps into a person’s support system to promote mental health wellness and Recovery.
Fee for ServicesThe Meadows accepts Medical Assistance, Medicare, and most private insurances. Centre County MH/MR pays for involuntary psychiatric placements.
Mount Nittany Medical Center 1800 East Park AvenueState College, PA 16803234-6177
Eligibility CriteriaAll are eligible for this program
Referral ProcessThis is an emergency service; Mount Nittany Medical Center (MNMC) accepts self referrals and referrals from other service providers, including Centre County MH/MR.
Services ProvidedThe MNMC Emergency Room provides psychiatric assessment and emergency treatment 24-7. Psychiatric and psychological consultations are provided on the medical floors as needed. The inpatient Mental Health Unit (3-South) has 12 beds and admits adults age 18 years and older.
Fee for ServicesMNMC accepts Medical Assistance, Medicare, and most private insurance companies. Patients who meet certain financial eligibility requirements may apply for free care. Centre County MH/MR pays for involuntary psychiatric hospitalization services.
Nittany Employment Services (NES)1840 North Atherton StreetState College, PA 16803
Agency Contact InformationPaul Tobin, NES [email protected]
Eligibility CriteriaNES serves individuals with developmental and other disabilities.
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Referral ProcessAll individuals are referred by OVR and/or Centre County MH/MR.
Services ProvidedVocational services including job development, pre-employment training, job coaching, long-term job support, community-based assessment and evaluations.
Fee for ServicesServices are paid by OVR and/or Centre County MH/MR.
Northwestern Human Services (NHS)3020 Research DriveState College, PA 16801
Agency Contact InformationLaChan Hannon - Wrap-around [email protected] Gauche – Supported living [email protected] 814-238-6395
Eligibility CriteriaIndividual needs a diagnosis of mental retardation to be eligible for the Supported Living service. Please contact NHS for eligibility criteria for BHRS Wrap-around services.
Referral ProcessNHS accepts self referrals and referrals from Centre County MH/MR for BHRS Wrap-around services. NHS accepts referrals from Centre County MH/MR for Supported Living Services.
Services ProvidedThis program provides individualized community-based counseling services and wraparound services which address the overall needs of the child including educational, developmental, and emotional. Services are provided in the home, school, or community and must be deemed medically necessary by a physician. NHS also provides Supported Living services to individuals with developmental disabilities.
Fee for servicesThere is no fee for wrap-around services or supported living services.
Opportunity Centre Clubhouse (OCC)120 East Cherry LaneBellefonte, PA. 16823353-1050 or 353-0569Emily Raymond, [email protected]://www.skillsofcentralpa.org/public/services/opportunity_centre_clubhouse.php
Eligibility CriteriaTo be eligible for this program, an individual must be diagnosed with a serious mental illness
Referral ProcessOpportunity Center Clubhouse accepts referrals from Centre County MH/MR
Services ProvidedOCC is a site based psychiatric rehabilitation program that focuses on our members’ abilities and strengths. Much more than simply a program, or a social service, a Clubhouse is most importantly a community of people who are working together toward a common goal. A Clubhouse is a restorative environment for people who have had their lives drastically disrupted, and need the support of others who believe that recovery from mental illness is possible for all.
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Through participation in our Clubhouse members are given the opportunities to be part of friendships, family, important work, employment, education, and to access the services and supports they may individually need.
Fee for ServicesThere is no fee for services.
Opportunity Network for Employment (ONE) Program520 James M. Elliott Building120 South Burrowes StreetUniversity Park, PA 16802
Agency Contact InformationMarianne [email protected] Address: http://ohr.psu.edu/employment-resources/one-program
Eligibility CriteriaPersons with a disability who are seeking employment at Penn State’s University Park Campus are eligible for services through the ONE Program. If the person seeking services through the ONE Program is not a client of a rehabilitation provider (for example, OVR, the Base Service Unit, Skills, the ARC), he/she will be referred to a rehabilitation provider as appropriate.
Referral ProcessA student with a disability, his/her parents or another family member, learning support teacher, school district transition coordinator, or rehabilitation provider can contact the coordinator of the ONE Program. An intake appointment will be scheduled with the student with a disability and his/her parent(s) or other appropriate persons.
Services Provided Conduct an intake interview and invite the person with a disability to voluntarily self-identify in order to utilize the
services of the ONE Program. Guide individuals with disabilities through the application process. Seek employment opportunities for qualified individuals with disabilities who, with or without a reasonable
accommodation, can perform the essential functions of the job. Provide reasonable accommodations for known functional limitations during the application and interview process. Coordinate services between appropriate University departments and community rehabilitation providers if the
person with a disability is hired.
Fee for ServicesNo
*Although efforts are made to help persons with disabilities achieve their employment goals, participating in the ONE Program does not guarantee employment.*
Penn State Psychological Clinic314 Moore BuildingUniversity Park, 16802865-2191http://psych.la.psu.edu/psychClinic/index.html
Eligibility CriteriaPlease contact the Psychological Clinic for information about eligibility criteria.
Referral ProcessThe Penn State Psychological Clinic accepts self referrals and referrals from Centre County MH/MR
Services ProvidedThe Psychological Clinic provides a variety of services to both child and adult members of the community. Since it functions as part of the Clinical Psychology Program at Penn State, it offers psychotherapy conducted under the direction of experts in the field of psychology, specialty clinics for different disorders, and the opportunity to be involved
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in innovative programs through different research programs. In addition to individual therapy, the clinic provides group, couples, and family therapy. Psychiatric services are available to clients in therapy at the clinic, as deemed appropriate. Other services include psychological evaluation and assessment, and consulting and intervention for individuals with cognitive impairment who have additional behavioral or mental health issues. As a training clinic, doctoral level students conduct most of the therapeutic services and are closely supervised by clinical faculty. The Child and Adolescent Services of the Penn State Psychological Clinic is one of the primary providers of mental health services within the Centre County school system.
Fee for ServicesThe clinic accepts Medical Access, Medicare, and a number of private insurances. A sliding scale is available for most services.
Skills of Central PA, Inc.2593-1 Clyde AvenueState College PA 16801
Agency Contact InformationJoe Weilacher – Employment Services (234-2330)Kelly Shuler – Residential (272-0341)814-238-3245Web Address: www.skillsofcentralpa.org
Eligibility CriteriaPlease contact Skills for information about eligibility.
Referral ProcessAll individuals are referred by OVR and/or Centre County MH/MR. The Skills staff will contact your child and do an intake and begin the process of locating employment.
Services Provided Career assessments Job placement/job coaching services Follow-up services Employment and training services
Fee for ServicesNone
Skills of Central PA also provides a variety of additional services for persons with developmental disabilities. These include residential services, behavior support services and industry and janitorial services. Skills of Central PA serves persons with developmental disabilities and persons with mental illness at its vocational training program.*
State College CareerlinkYouth Services Program1300 Benner Pike Suite 2State College, PA 16801
Agency Contact InformationRebecca Homan, Youth Services Manager814-27205465, ext. [email protected] : 814-272-3513Web Address: https://www.cwds.state.pa.us/
Eligibility CriteriaEligibility is based on income and barriers.
Referral ProcessAnyone can submit a pre-application to be considered for the program.
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Services ProvidedThe Youth Services Program assists youth (ages 14-21) to complete their educational and career goals. Each program participant is guided using an individual goal plan. Supportive services and work experience are offered as needed by participants.
Fee for ServicesAll services are free of charge.
*If an individual (18 years or older) is not eligible for the Youth Services Program, he/she may be eligible to receive adult services offered by CareerLink. These services are also free of charge.*
Stepping Stone Transitional Living Program334 South Burrowes StreetState College, PA 16801
Agency Contact Information814-237-5731814-237- 2228 [email protected] Address: www.ccysb.com/steppingstone.htm
Eligibility Criteria Males and females ages 16-21 Youth in the care/custody of their county either through Children and Youth Services and/or probation Homeless youth ages 18-21 Youth must not be a danger to him/herself or others
Referral ProcessThe program is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week so all staff can accept referral calls. Anyone can make a referral including self-referrals, parents, caseworkers, probation officers, teachers, counselors, etc. Prospective residents must complete an application and interview prior to being accepted into the program.
Services Provided Immediate needs such as food and shelter Life skill training in the form of individual meetings and weekly workshops In-house counseling as well as referrals to practitioners within the community Aftercare planning to assist with the transition out of Stepping Stone into the community
Fee for Services County agencies (CYS or probation) who place youth in this program’s care are charged per diem The program is also federally funded through grants to offer services to homeless youths at no cost All residents are required to pay rent (a minimal amount of each paycheck) which helps offset their costs of living
at the program
*Stepping Stone also offers non-residential services to assist youth in the community in making the transition to independent living. The number to the aftercare/non-residential office is 814-234-2834.*
Strawberry Fields, Inc.3054 Enterprise DriveState College, PA 16801814-234-6023Rich Gadsby, Director of Mental Health [email protected] Imler, Director of Developmental [email protected] Address: www.sfionline.org
Services for persons with Mental Illness
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Case Management Services -Strawberry Fields provides Intensive Case Management services for adults and Resource Coordination and Intensive Case Management services for children. Our Intensive Case Management programs provide after hours and weekend on-call crisis support.
Residential Programs - SFI also operates an eleven bed Community Residential Rehabilitation (CRR) program for adults. The CRR program is located in a cluster of town homes that has easy access to public transportation, shopping, employment opportunities, YMCA, treatment services, and employment opportunities. The CRR program manager also facilitates an adult transition support group where past CRR residents return to the CRR to meet with current residents every other week to discuss issues they experienced in transitioning out of the CRR and are currently experiencing while living independently in the community. In addition to our case management and CRR services SFI operates a Fairweather Lodge program for four individuals in the State College area. The Fairweather Lodge is a living and employment arrangement where residents share in the day-to-day experiences of running a household and business with minimal staff assistance.
SFI also facilitates a monthly parent support group for parents whose children are receiving case management services through our agency.
Services for Persons with Mental Retardation
Residential Programs – Strawberry Fields provides 24 hour long-term residential services to 24 individuals in eight group homes located in the State College area. Each home is made up of consumers with similar needs and levels of functioning. All referrals come through Centre County MH/MR. Adult Development Programs – Clustered apartment setting for seven consumers with mild to moderate mental retardation who live in their own apartments with staff working out of an apartment. Consumers in this program must have the ability to independently access emergency services since 24 hour coverage is not provided.
Supported Living Programs – Serves 22 adults with mental retardation who live independently in their own apartments. Staff meets with consumers in their homes or in the community approximately once a week for 2-3 hours to provide support in their activities of daily living. Focus is on linking the consumers with appropriate community supports.
Independent Living Programs – Provides three ten-week sessions a year to ten individuals that live at home with their families. The program focuses on providing the participants with opportunities to work on developing and improving social skills and independent living skills. Activities include planning and preparing group meals and parties.
All referrals come through Centre County MH/MR.
Universal Community Behavioral Health206 West High StreetBellefonte, PA. 16823; Phone: 353-3151 Phone: 353-1491 Contact Jason Miknis for BHRS Wrap-Around Services
Eligibility CriteriaPlease contact Universal Community Behavioral Health (UCBH) for information about eligibility criteria.
Referral ProcessUCBH accepts self referrals and referrals from Centre County MH/MR.
Services ProvidedUCBH offers child and adolescent partial hospitalization; child, adolescent and adult psychotherapy and medication management; BHRS Wrap-Around and Family Based Mental Health services as well as Peer Support.
Fee for ServicesUCBH accepts Medical Assistance, Medicare, and a number of private insurances. A sliding scale is available for most services.
*UCBH is a private behavioral healthcare company with offices throughout Central Pennsylvania. For additional information regarding services and sites, please call The Meadows Psychiatric Center at 364-2161 or 1-800-641-7529.
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Advocacy ResourcesCenter for Independent Living of North Central Pennsylvania210 Market Street, Suite AWilliamsport, PA 17701-6633570-327-9070 or 800-984-7492www.cilncp.org
The mission of the Center for Independent Living of North Central Pennsylvania (CILNCP) is to advance the rights of persons with disabilities through the elimination of barriers that people with disabilities experience. Community participation is an integral part of the Center for Independent Living of North Central Pennsylvania’s activities.
Community Help Centre139 South Pugh StreetState College, PA 16801814-237-5855http://www.communityhelpcentre.com/
Community Help Centre is a volunteer-based, non-profit organization that provides services, resources, education, training, and information to people who are in need of support and to people who are seeking volunteer opportunities in our community. Community Help Centre has a drop-in center and 24-hour hotline; they work to coordinate and deliver services throughout Centre County.
Disability Rights Network (DRN)Harrisburg Office 1414 N. Cameron St., Suite C Harrisburg, PA 17103 Phone: 1-800-692-7443 TDD: 1-877-375-7139Fax: (717) 236-0192E-mail: [email protected] http://www.drnpa.org/
Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania (DRN) is a statewide, non-profit corporation designated as the federally-mandated organization to advance and protect the civil rights of adults and children with disabilities. DRN works with people with disabilities and their families, their organizations, and their advocates to ensure their right to live in their communities with the services they need, to receive a full and inclusive education, to live free of discrimination, abuse and neglect, and to have control and self-determination over their services. DRN works to ensure that people with disabilities have equal and unhindered access to employment, transportation, public accommodations, and government services; to enforce their rights to vocational, habilitative, post-secondary educational, health, and other services; and to protect them from abuse and neglect.
Mentors for Self Determination1414 North Cameron Street, Suite BHarrisburg, PA 17103814-547-1577 or 724-813-5702www.mentors4sd.org
Mentors for Self Determination is a statewide group for people with developmental disabilities and their families, providing information through one-on-one mentoring and training that enables people and families to expand their knowledge of and access to services and to navigate support systems.
MidPenn Legal Services2054 East College Avenue
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State College, PA 16801814-238-4958 or 800-326-9177http://midpennlegal.org/default.htm
MidPenn Legal Services is a private, non-profit, public-interest law firm dedicated to providing equal access to justice and high quality legal services to low income persons and survivors of domestic violence in Central Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Client Assistance Programs2 North Second Street, Suite 100Harrisburg, PA 17101Phone: 717-364-1733http://www.equalemployment.org/
The Client Assistance Program is an advocacy program for people with disabilities administered by the Center for Disability Law & Policy. It is dedicated to ensuring that the rehabilitation system in Pennsylvania is open and responsive to the needs of persons with disabilities.
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Educational and Training Opportunity Resources
Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science and Technology (CPI)540 North Harrison RoadPleasant Gap, PA 16823814-359-2793http://www.cpi.tec.pa.us/
CPI provides students and the surrounding communities with the best in technical educational opportunities. CPI offers more than 18 secondary programs, over 45 in-house Adult and Continuing Education programs, and more than 350 online courses.
The Hiram G. Andrews Center727 Goucher StreetJohnstown, PA 15905800-762-4211http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/hiram_g__andrews_center/10357
The Hiram G. Andrews Center (HGAC) is a vocational facility that operates as a part of the PA Office of Vocational Rehabilitation. HGAC conducts a comprehensive program of services featuring the integration of education, counseling, evaluation, and physical restoration in a barrier-free environment. HGAC offers associate degree programs in Accounting, Architectural Drafting, Medical Office Assistance, Mechanical Drafting, Computer Servicing Technology, Culinary Arts, and Dental Laboratory Technology. HGAC also offers diploma programs in Automotive Technology, Building Maintenance, Business Retail Management, Culinary Arts, Custodial Worker, Dental Assisting, General Office Clerk, Hotel/Motel Cleaning, Jewelry Manufacturing and Repair, Materials Management and Distribution, Medical Clerical, Nursing Assistance/Long Term Care, Printing Technology, Retail Distribution, and Small Engine and Equipment Repair.
Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation(Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation Services)1130 12th Avenue, Suite 500Altoona, PA 16601866-442-6343www.dli.state.pa.us (type in OVR)
The BVRS side of OVR can provide counseling, testing, and job placement assistance for individuals with physical, mental or emotional disabilities. Also, financial assistance may be available for medical items, medical treatment, and job training needed for employment.
Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation(Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services)1130 12th Avenue, Suite 300Altoona. PA 16601866-695-7673www.dli.state.pa.us (type in OVR)
The mission of the BBVS side of OVR is to assist Pennsylvanians who are blind or visually impaired to gain the skills necessary to live and work independently in their communities. Services include employment-related counseling, medical treatment, training, and job placement as well as independent living services for children and adults.
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Employment Resources
Centre County Mental Health/Mental Retardation420 Holmes StreetWillowbank Office BuildingBellefonte, PA 16823355-6782 or 355-6786http://www.co.centre.pa.us/561.asp
Centre County MH/MR provides referrals and funding to support job coaching services. An individual must have an open case with MH/MR or OVR to be eligible for assistance.
The Arc of Centre County1840 North Atherton StreetState College, PA 16803814-238-1444http://www.taaocc.org
The Arc of Centre County is an advocacy and service provider organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with developmental disabilities. Employment Services are provided by Nittany Employment Services, a department within The Arc of Centre County.
Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation(Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services)1130 12th Avenue, Suite 300Altoona, PA 16601866-695-7673www.dli.state.pa.us (type in OVR)
The mission of the BBVS side of OVR is to assist Pennsylvanians who are blind or visually impaired to gain the skills necessary to live and work independently in their communities. Services include employment-related counseling, medical treatment, training, and job placement as well as independent living services for children and adults.
Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation(Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation Services)1130 12th Avenue, Suite 500Altoona, PA 16601866-442-6343www.dli.state.pa.us (type in OVR)
The BVRS side of OVR can provide counseling, testing, and job placement assistance for individuals with physical, mental or emotional disabilities. Also, financial assistance may be available for medical items, medical treatment, and job training needed for employment.
Penn State Opportunity Network for Employment (ONE) Program120 South Burrowes StreetUniversity Park, PA 16801865-0676http://ohr.psu.edu/employment-resources/one-program
The Opportunity Network for Employment helps qualified applicants with disabilities explore employment opportunities at Penn State’s University Park Campus.
Skills of Central PA2593-1 Clyde AvenueState College, PA 16801231-0820
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http://www.skillsofcentralpa.org
Skills of Central Pennsylvania, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization that is committed to creating opportunities and providing support for people who need specialized services to enhance all aspects of their lives.
Team PA CareerLinkState College Office1300 Benner PikeState College, PA 16801272-5465 or 866-808-5465https://www.cwds.state.pa.us/
Pennsylvania CareerLink is a cooperative effort to provide one-stop delivery of career services to job seekers, employers, and other interested individuals.
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Financial Assistance Resources
Centre County Assistance Office2580 Park Center BoulevardState College, PA 16801863-6571http://www.dpw.state.pa.us
The mission of the Department of Public Welfare is to promote, improve, and sustain the quality of family life, break the cycle of dependency, promote respect for employees, protect and serve Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable citizens, and manage our resources effectively.
Goodwill Keystone Area Work Incentive Planning Assistance Services (WIPA)Goodwill Keystone AreaWork Incentive Planning Assistance Services (WIPA) 1300 Benner PikeState College, PA 16801Linda Jacka-Frantz, Community Work Incentives [email protected] Free: 866-541-7005 X3Fax: 814-355-1144Covering Centre, Clearfield, and Clinton Counties and 11 other counties to the North and to the Easthttp://yourgoodwill.org/programs/work_incentives.php?subsection=Youth
Goodwill Keystone Area Work Incentive Planning Assistance Services (WIPA) provides free benefits counseling services to SSI and SSDI beneficiaries who are working or who want to work.
Social Security Administration901 University DriveState College, PA 16801800-772-1213http://www.socialsecurity.gov/
The Social Security Administration pays disability benefits under two programs: The Social Security Disability Insurance Program (SSDI) and the Supplemental Security Income Program (SSI). Please work with your child’s county Supports Coordinator/Case Manager and/or OVR counselor to determine if your child may be eligible.
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Health Assistance Resources
Centre Volunteers in Medicine (CVIM)2520 Green Tech DriveState College, PA 16801231-4043http://www.cvim.net/
CVIM is a non-profit corporation dedicated to understanding and serving the health and wellness needs of the medically underserved population of Centre County, Pennsylvania. CVIM provides access to free acute and preventive medical care to residents of the county that meet certain eligibility criteria.
Medical Assistance for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD)800-692-7462http://www.dpw.state.pa.us (click on “For Disability Servcies” then click “Health Care/Medical Assistance” and then click “Medical Assistance Benefits for Workers with Disabilities”)
MAWD allows persons with disabilities to have a fulfilling job, earn more money, and still keep their full medical coverage. Please contact the local county assistance office, your child’s supports coordinators and/or OVR counselor for more information about this program.
Pennsylvania Department of Health
Special Health Care Needs ConsultantsNorth Central DistrictWater Tower Square1000 Commerce Park DriveSuite 109Williamsport, PA 17701 Phone: 570-327-3400 Fax: 570-327-3748
Transition Health Care Checklistwww.health.state.pa.us/transitionchecklist
This checklist has been created to assist individuals and families in the transition to adult health care.
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Housing Resources Centre County Housing Authority602 East Howard StreetBellefonte, PA 16823355-6750http://www.co.centre.pa.us/815.asp
Centre County Housing Authority can provide housing case management to assist in finding housing throughout the county. It operates Public Housing (Beaver Farm Apartments in Bellefonte), Elderly/Disabled Housing (Crestside Terrace and Brockerhoff House in Bellefonte) and the Section 8 Program/Housing Choice Voucher Program.
Program Name: Section 8 Program/Housing Choice Voucher ProgramAddress: 121 Beaver Farm Lane Bellefonte, PA 16823Phone Number: 814-355-6906
Centre County residents within Housing and Urban Development (HUD) income Guidelines are eligible for rental assistance. The participant pays 30% of their gross income towards the rent and the Housing Choice voucher paying the rest to the landlord. Access to the program is prioritized through waiting lists.
Centre County Mental Health/Mental Retardation420 Holmes StreetWillowbank BuildingBellefonte, PA 16823355-6782 or 355-6786http://co.centre.pa.us/561.asp
Centre County MH/MR does not provide housing to persons with disabilities; this agency can refer an individual to an existing residential program operated by a contracted provider agency or to the Shelter Plus Care Program.
Program Name: Shelter Plus Care Address: 420 Holmes St Bellefonte, PA 16823Phone Number: 814-355-6782
An individual is eligible to receive this program if they are homeless according to HUD’s definition of homelessness and is open with our office due to a mental illness and/or substance abuse to receive supportive services. An individual is homeless if they are: residing in an emergency shelter; residing in a transitional housing unit following a stay at an emergency shelter; living in their car, on the streets, in outdoor areas, etc. An individual has to receive recommended services through the MH/MR D& A office that could include individual therapy, medication monitoring, case management, and rehabilitation. Once the individual is open with the office, they can be referred to the program. An individual or single parent receives financial assistance for an efficiency apartment, or a one or two bedroom apartment within Centre County. An individual pays 30% of their gross income towards rent. If they have no income, they will not pay anything and could also receive a small utility allowance.
Centre County Women’s Resource Centerhttp://www.ccwrc.org/Address: 140 W. Nittany Ave. State College, PA 16801Phone Number: 814-238-7066
An individual is eligible to receive services through the Women’s Resource Center (WRC) if they have experienced domestic violence or sexual assault. WRC provides emergency shelter, case management, goal-oriented programming, advocacy, counseling, information and referral, support group(s), counseling for children, and children’s group. In addition to the shelter, the WRC also provides a Bridge Housing Program. Individuals and/or families who are survivors of domestic and sexual violence who have resided in our emergency shelter for a period of at least 30 days and are in need of supportive services in order to secure self-sufficiency in permanent housing are eligible for this program.
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Centre County Youth Service Bureau
Program Name: Stepping Stone Transitional Living ProgramAddress: 334 S. Burrowes Street, State College, PA 16801Phone Number: 814-234-2632
Stepping Stone serves youth between the ages of 16 and 21. We serve two distinct populations. We serve custodial youth still in the care of a county agency such as CYS or Juvenile probation. We also serve homeless youth who are 18 and independent from custodial care, or youth who have been emancipated by the courts and are considered independent. This population must meet one of the following criteria to be considered “homeless”: are being discharged from an institution, shelter, or program and have no suitable living option; coming from living on the streets, evicted from their residence, fleeing a domestic violence situation. The Youth Service Bureau provides food and shelter, case management and goal planning, life skill training, money management, job skills, and aftercare services.
Housing Transitions, Inc. (HTI)http://www.housingtransitions.com/
Housing Transitions offers housing case management as well as the following two programs.
Program Name: Centre House Emergency ShelterAddress: 217 E. Nittany Avenue, State College, PA 16801Phone Number: 814-237-5508 Fax Number: 814-237-7480
This program provides shelter and food to individuals and families in Centre County who are homeless or in crisis and over the age of 18 unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian or who are legally emancipated. Persons convicted of/or charged with a violent crime, a crime of a sexual nature, or a crime involving the sale/distribution of drugs are not deemed eligible for residential services. All individuals must go through the interview process prior to a determination of eligibility.
The primary purpose of the shelter is to provide shelter and food to persons in crisis. The Centre House Case Manager works with each individual or family to set objectives for employment, housing, child care services, etc.; review progress; and coordinate and make referrals to other community services. Each resident is responsible for completing several housekeeping chores daily to help keep the shelter running efficiently. Each resident is expected to follow all Centre House rules and to work with the case manager daily. The shelter works with centre county residents up to 30 days and out of county residents up to 3 days. A person who is making progress but has substantial obstacles to overcome may be granted additional time to stay in order to become successful and stable.
Program Name: Transitional Housing ProgramsAddress: 217 East Nittany Avenue, State College, PA 16801Phone Number: (814) 237-1944
Centre County adult individuals and families who are homeless and in need of supportive service in order to secure self-sufficiency in permanent housing are eligible for this program. Housing Transitions Inc. (HTI) has 2 Bridge Housing units and 6 Supportive Housing units at scattered locations in the State College area. The Transitional Housing Programs are supportive goal-oriented programs intended to assist homeless individuals and families in becoming self-sufficient and to secure permanent housing. Bridge Housing is a one year program and the Supportive Housing Program is a 2 year program.
School District Special Education OfficesBald Eagle Area School DistrictSpecial Education Office751 South Eagle Valley Road
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Wingate, PA 16823Phone: (814)-355-5731FAX: (814)-355-5157Melissa Butterworth, Director of Special [email protected]
Bellefonte Area School DistrictSpecial Education Office318 North Allegheny StBellefonte, PA 16823(814) 355-4814Dr. Gina MacFalls, Director of Special [email protected]
Keystone Central School DistrictSpecial Education Office110 East Bald Eagle StreetLock Haven, PA 17745Phone: (570)-748-4660Fax: (570)-748-2026Judith Petruzzi, Director of Special [email protected]
Penns Valley Area School DistrictSpecial Education Office4528 Penns Valley RoadSpring Mills, PA 16875Phone: (814) 422-2000Fax: (814) 422-8020
Philipsburg-Osceola School DistrictStudent Services Office1810 Black Moshannon RoadPhilipsburg, PA 16866Phone: (814) 342-5985Fax: (814) 343-3547Cindi Marsh, Director of Student [email protected]
State College Area School DistrictSpecial Education Department154 West Nittany AvenueState College, PA 16801Phone: (814) 231-1072, extension 4172Patrick Moore, Director of Special [email protected]
Tyrone Area School DistrictSpecial Education Department701 Clay AvenueTyrone, PA 16686Phone: (814) 684-0170, extension 4145Joann Lang, Assistant Superintendent
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Support Groups in Centre County
National Alliance on Mental Illness NAMI of Central PA
Contact Person: David Jeffreys,
717 S. Sparks St., State College 16801
814-238-1983
This support group was originally for families of individuals with mental illness, but now is intended to serve both family members and consumers. The group meets to discuss personal situations, exchange advice and information, and support advocacy efforts at local, state, and national levels. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month (except July and August) from 7 pm to 9 pm at the South Hills Business School, 480 Waupelani Dr., State College. NAMI of Central PA is publicly funded and is also supported by nominal annual membership dues.
Community Support Program (CSP)Centre Region CSP meets at the second Thursday of each month at 2:00 PM. The meetings are held at:
Foxdale Village Retirement Community500 E. Marylyn AvenueState College, PA 16801 (814) 238-3322
Moshannon Valley CSP meets the third Tuesday of the month at 1pm at:
Holt Library9 West Pine StreetPhilipsburg, PA 16866 (Contact the MH/MR at 814-355-6786 with any questions) (814) 342-1987
Community Support Program (CSP) is an informal, nationwide collaboration of consumers, family members, Mental Health professionals and government. CSP has existed for over 30 years, always striving to increase the quantity and quality of services provided to adults by the public Mental Health system. The CSP philosophy is that strong participation by family members, and especially by consumers, is the key to success. Many consumers find that volunteering in CSP is a stepping stone to self-rehabilitation and leadership in Mental Health advocacy. Our Centre County CSP Committee is newly refocused and energized, with much participation by consumers, family members and government. The committee meets once a month to decide what will work on next and how we will go about it. Individuals who desire greater involvement can participate at regional and state levels as well. The local CSP links with Central Region CSP, the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Advisory Committees, and other groups throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and nationwide.
Please contact Centre County MH/MR with questions about CSP.
Centre County Down Syndrome Society
Centre County Down Syndrome SocietyP.O. Box 825State College, PA 16804
Email: [email protected]
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From their website (http://www.centrecountydownsyndrome.org/index.html):
The mission of the Centre County Down Syndrome Society is to provide information, support, and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome and their families in the Centre County area. We also seek to provide information and education to local healthcare professionals, educators, businesspeople, and the community at large so as to increase understanding and awareness that will enhance the lives of individuals with Down syndrome.
Nittany Valley Brain Injury Support GroupHealthSouthNittany Valley Rehabilitation Hospital550 West College Avenue
Pleasant Gap, PA 16823Contact: Sharon Poorman, 814-359-3421 , X 5659
This support group meets the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM. It is usually an open discussion and does occasionally have special speakers. This group hosts two social events each year.
The Seven Mountains Warm Line
Phone: 1-877-411-9102Hours of Operation: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM 7 days a week; 365 days a year
The Seven Mountains Warm Line is a confidential, non-crisis, one-on-one telephone service that gives support by offering hope and encouragement to persons who have a mental illness who may be experiencing loneliness, have a problem they just need to talk about, and/or just want to hear a “friendly voice.” It is staffed by trained individuals who have a mental illness, who are in Recovery, and who understand. The Seven Mountains Warm Line is for persons who have a mental illness and who live in Huntingdon, Mifflin, Juniata and Centre Counties.
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Transportation Resources
Centre Area Transit Authority (CATA)2081 West Whitehall RoadState College, PA 16801238-2282, ext. 156 (Paratransit Coordinator)http://www.catabus.com/sscentride.htm
Centre Ride provides curb to curb transportation for senior citizens and people whose disabilities prevent them from using the Centre Line buses. Individuals with disabilities may be eligible for discounted bus passes to use public transportation offered by CATA.
Centre County Office of TransportationIddings StreetMilesburg, PA 16853355-6807http://www.co.centre.pa.us/531.asp
The Rural Transportation for Persons with Disabilities program can help persons with disabilities under 60 years of age who need transportation within Centre County and who live in an area not served by public fixed-route bus transportation and paratransit service.
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