D.E.P. at the Sollar Wellness Center ~
A Day Habilitation Program

Daily Enrichment Opportunities

New England Village’s Day Enrichment Program provides adults with developmental disabilities opportunities for personal growth, social interaction, public service and healthy living. Through this dynamic program, participants may take part in activities in a variety of interest areas such as: fitness, swimming, health and wellness education, music, art, volunteerism, and life skills classes.

Our daily offerings are designed to promote developmental skills training and to meet a vast array of interests and passions. Specific goals, designed to be carried out during enrichment activities, will be developed for each participant by a team comprised of his or her case manager, interest area instructor, and therapeutic specialists, (e.g. occupational, physical or speech) when relevant.

Interest Areas

Fitness

The Village’s commitment to promoting health and wellness is paramount and regular exercise is a key component of DEP programs. Fitness classes focus on aerobics, strength training and flexibility with the goal of improved cardiovascular fitness and upper and lower body strength. Relaxation techniques are offered in every class. Classes are lead by a certified fitness professional and participants use state-of-the-art fitness equipment.

Aquatics

The Village is pleased to offer aquatic fitness on site. Participants in our Day Enrichment Program experience the many health benefits of aqua fitness. In a safe and supportive environment, participants may explore the water at their own pace with the assistance of a certified aqua fitness professional, a trained lifeguard and support staff.   Individuals are given the opportunity to swim laps, use water weights or participate in structured water aerobic activities.  After an invigorating 45 minute class, participants and their staff have access to full-service locker rooms to comfortably shower and change back into their regular clothing.

Music

Expressing oneself through music is an important creative and therapeutic outlet for many people, and the same holds true for participants in the DEP’s music offerings. Lead by a trained musician, these offerings are designed to assess social functioning, communication abilities, and cognitive, motor, and daily living skills through singing, dancing and playing a variety of instruments.

Art

The supportive environment of the art enrichment offerings provide participants with therapeutic and social benefits through an interdisciplinary approach. The creative process fosters a sense of pride, accomplishment, self worth and confidence.  Focusing on each person’s abilities, participants have the opportunity to explore self expression through a variety of mediums such as: clay, sewing/weaving, drawing, painting, sculpting, and mixed media collage. Participation in group projects promotes team work and the importance of collaboration, cooperation and community. Art offerings are lead by a professional artist.

Life Skills

These structured, yet highly interactive offerings involve participants in a variety of activities that are designed to promote new skills and personal interests. Offerings are customized and implemented based on individual learning ability and specific therapeutic goals. Potential offerings may include, but are certainly not limited to:

·         Communication Skills

·         Health & Wellness Education

·         Safety Skills

·         Theatre Arts

Program staff use a variety of materials and resources to explore current class themes. These life enriching offerings are subject to change on a quarterly basis or as needed.

Enroll in NEV’s Day Enrichment Program

Day Enrichment Program operates Monday through Friday from 9am-3pm. All activities take place at the Sollar Wellness Center or at various sites in the community.

To enroll, please call Lisa Drennan, Sollar Wellness Center Director at (781) 293-5461 x203.

New England Village requires that participants who are Mass Health eligible receive these services under the day habilitation services umbrella and meet the minimum paperwork requirements for participation in a day habilitation program.

The Sollar Wellness Center

The Sollar Wellness Center is the first-of-its-kind health and wellness facility specifically designed for people with developmental disabilities. The 14,000 square foot building includes a 30ft. x 50ft. swimming pool for therapy-based classes, a Jacuzzi, an exercise equipment room, a fitness area, a walking track, art room including a pottery kiln, a kitchen to accommodate cooking classes, a wellness education center and a massage therapy room.

“It is the mission of New England Village, Inc. to enable adults living with developmental disabilities to experience dignified, enriching lives as part of a dynamic, supportive campus community.”