New Hope’s Social Life is Better than Mine

14 Nov New Hope’s Social Life is Better than Mine

Last week we welcomed three surveyors from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and were pleased to hear that they found all of the great things that we see in our work every day. Here’s just a little of what they learned.

In our music therapy program, clients like Stephanie work toward personal goals such as getting a job or a driver’s license. Sometimes, these goals are daunting and they may seem out of reach or overwhelming. To better cope with that frustration and to express the emotions that come along with it, people like Stephanie are choosing popular songs which they enjoy and changing the lyrics to reflect their own experiences. By re-writing these songs, and sometimes even recording them, Stephanie is able to communicate her progress toward reaching her goals and the emotions that she is facing. The CARF surveyors were very impressed with the positive outcomes and the impact of this program on the individuals served including Stephanie.

In addition to the music therapy program, the surveyors visited Stephen, an individual served through New Hope’s Vocational Services program. The CARF surveyors found Stephen’s employment to be truly meaningful and saw him as a vital part of the team at the retail store where he works. Learn more about Stephen’s job and Vocational Services in this post. The surveyors also interviewed individuals served in New Hope’s residential programs, behavior therapy and day services. One surveyor even commented that those we serve have a better social life than she does! With community outings chosen by the participating individuals, all of New Hope’s programs seek to stimulate community integration and promote independence for those served.

Overall, the CARF survey went well and New Hope of Indiana will receive the final recommendations and notification regarding our new accreditation in the next several weeks. Thank you to all of dedicated associates who helped prepare for the survey and to Maija Augenbergs, Quality Assurance Coordinator, for her efforts in leading our team.