TECHConnection
INDEPENDENT LIVING CONNECTIONS
FRA's TECHConnection is expanding it's services, offering new classes, increased programs and days in a NEW LOCATION!
Independent Living Connections is a series of classes that address vital aspects of gaining skills for independence, spanning all life aspects; personal care, home care, job-seeking readiness, leisure planning, interacting in the community, emergency and safety planning, relationships (interpersonal, job and community), and community service. Our new space includes: fully operational Studio Apartment, Job-Sampling Room and Classroom/Computer Lab.
LOCATION:
Hawkswood Collaboratives, 270 Industrial Way, Eatontown, NJ
Click for directions
TIME and DURATION:
AM Session: 8:30 – 11:30
Lunch: 11:30 – 12:30
PM Session: 12:30 – 3:30
Morning and afternoon sessions are available each day, Monday - Friday.
Classes will run in 12 weekly sessions: Fall, Winter & Spring.
COST:
Determined by the number of classes in each Session.
See Fall, Winter, Spring Sessions (sessions listed on left sidebar) for cost of each Session.
Download CLASS SCHEDULE
Download CLASS CALENDAR
FALL CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
COMMUNITY SERVICE
How to be involved with others in one’s life and reaching out to broaden a sense of connection often gives people a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. Discussion and activities will help individuals see themselves as being able to impact others in meaningful ways. This will include volunteering and participating in projects of interest to them. Individuals will identify how to help others in their home, family, neighborhood, or organization. Students will also plan and implement at least one major project (i.e., food drive, dance party, meeting the needs of others in our shared space.)
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
Clothing tells everyone something about you. This class focuses on learning about clothing, right from their closet. Individuals will learn to read size and care labels to make choices about purchasing and laundering, gain independence to do laundry - wash, dry and fold, hang up, and make minor clothing repairs. They will learn skills to determine how to make choices about their clothes that fit and look best on them, including determining proper sizes for clothes and shoes, purchasing clothes within a budget, and making selections for the occasion, weather and place, as well as learning how to mix and match.
ENJOYING MY SPACE
Using a studio apartment, individuals will gain skills to help them maintain their personal living space including, but not limited to: learning cleaning skills to keep a home clean and healthy in all spaces; cleaning appliances; organizing cabinets; determining when cleaning is needed; using and storing cleaning chemicals and supplies; maintaining basic home care (changing a light bulb, preventing drains from clogging, recycling); accessing emergency assistance for utilities; developing an emergency plan (loss of electricity, gas leak, storm emergency, fire escape route, etc). In addition, preparing-for-guests skills will include making their space inviting, displaying courtesy and manners to make their guests feel welcome in their space; having and offering drinks and food; preparing activities for sharing and conversation.
FOOD PREPARATION AND SAFETY
Food needs to be properly stored, washed, and prepared for good health. Healthy eating and good nutrition will be reviewed for maintaining weight and reducing health complications of poor eating habits. Individuals will be able to plan a week’s menu, make a shopping list and stay within a budget. Comparison price shopping and coupon use will be gained. Food handling instruction will include learning to keep food safe, identifying how food goes bad, and determining if food has spoiled. Individuals will learn proper use of a microwave, toaster oven and blender and the related utensils, for safety, care and cleaning necessary. Storing food, checking expiration dates, cleaning spills for safety and keeping away bugs will be practiced.
GETTING READY FOR A JOB - Advanced Level Class
Individuals will gain skills to be prepared for employment by learning the necessary steps to get a job. Activities will include: determining work abilities, interests, and eligibility for work options reasonably available to them; preparing a resume; searching for jobs in the newspaper, online, in person and through contacting the county employment office (or DVR); completing job applications; role playing for job seeking and interviews; learning to dress appropriately, including posture and self-presentation. Individuals will learn about wage rates, paychecks, taking time off, company policies and discrimination issues.
LEADERSHIP, ADVOCACY & PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT - Advanced Level Class
Individuals must possess and demonstrate interest and ability in social, self- awareness and communication skills to take this class. Pre-Screening by interview and pre-testing is necessary. Individuals will learn the art of speaking up for themselves, having a sense of issues that are important to them to talk about and how to do so. Use of decision making and problem-solving techniques will be included in this class to foster these skills in leadership activities. Public speaking will be practiced in class. Individuals will also participate in a training class offered by the Toastmasters Club. Individuals may then further have an opportunity to join the FRA Ambassadors Club for speaking to community groups or in public settings.
LEISURE TECHNOLOGY
Individuals will learn to use the many avenues that technology offers them for leisure and recreation. Using computers and technology, individuals will learn how to independently download music; find and use safe Internet sites for games, TV shows and movies; how to use a DVD player, Ipod and e-reader; how to download and save pictures; how to order take-out food by fax, phone, on-line and texting; how to shop online; and how to use email with their family and friends. Safety concerns in using the computer will be stressed. Individuals will be able to identify and use alternatives to being isolated by learning to balance quiet time, to connect with family and friends, and to participate out in community activities.
LIFE SKILLS LUNCH
Individuals will learn to prepare breakfast and lunch for one and for guests. In addition, individuals will learn how to: read food preparation directions on boxes; make easy recipes for microwave and toaster oven cooking; choose and make a balanced healthy meal; properly set a table, and use proper manners. Students will also learn how to successfully order a meal at a cafeteria/ restaurant; order take out food and food to be delivered, understand options of ordering, determine time needed for delivery and how to pay and tip. Proper clean up and food storage is stressed. THIS CLASS IS ONLY ONE HOUR in duration, but is offered daily, 5 days a week, all year long.
PICTURE THIS! DIGITAL PHOTOS AND FUN
Learn how to use a digital camera. Individuals will take pictures and learn about the many ways photos can be stored and shared, including on-line albums. Individuals will also learn how to scan or download favorite pictures into the computer and create a family photo album, photo calendars, scrapbooks and greeting cards. Goals and objectives for this class are for individuals to learn the steps involved with the start of taking a picture and then having an end result of where that picture can go to be stored, used or shared in a variety of ways.
READY TO GO
How to look your best and present yourself to others is the focus of the class. Individuals will gain skills about their hygiene and appearance: choosing and using the right products for manicures, pedicures, hair, dental and personal care; choosing appropriate clothes, based on weather, events, outings, job settings; displaying appropriate behavior, personal space, manners, etiquette and social conversation. Finally students will learn how to plan for outings in regard to: what to wear, needed supplies (drinks, jacket, sunscreen, etc), what and how to pack, how to get there, and the necessity to carry identification.
WINTER CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
ADVANCED LIFE SKILLS
Increased independence also requires a higher level of responsibility to be successful. Individuals in this class must already have basic independent skills and be able to take on more responsibility. Instruction will include how to: manage scheduling of daily activities; gain important information for decision making; create charts/systems for medicine, jobs, activities, etc.; deal with time management, conflict resolution, and meeting deadlines; and deal with change and stress.
CIRCLE OF FRIENDS
Interpersonal relationships depend on conversational skills, how to listen to others, express opinions, and maintain social contacts. Additional skills include the ability to: keep up with current news and community happenings; spending time together and choosing who to share that time; how to help others in ways that are satisfying to the individual; yet maintaining personal boundaries. Students will gain markers of defining relationship skills and interpersonal dynamics to determine levels of acquaintances, friends, dating relationships, and how these change and grow over time. Topics will include shared interests, secrets, dealing with jealousy, rejection, misunderstandings and how to have fun!
COMMUNITY COMPASS
Individuals will learn how to care for their needs by using resources in their community. Skills gained will include: locating places needed for transportation, food, shopping and medical needs; finding places online or in the phone book as well as in local newspapers; learning how to order things by phone; completing forms online; making their own appointments; and detecting a need and making contact to get public utilities to correct a problem in home (i.e., phone, cable, gas, electric). Skills to help organize their life by keeping track of information by using lists will be gained, including: phone lists of friends and important community contacts; email list; personal information; emergency information; “To-Do” lists; shopping lists; important dates; and activities lists. Different list options will be learned and regularly used, including handwritten lists, calendar books, data lists on the computer, etc.
COPING WITH WORK
Strategies to deal with on-the-job expectations and relationships will provide individuals with the increased skills necessary to maintain their employment. Issues covered include: dealing with a supervisor; understanding the rules of the job place, scheduling, time cards, pay checks and related activities; interacting with co-workers and the public, such as how to greet, hold a brief conversation (what to talk about), appropriate interactions, anger management; and dealing with inappropriate advances, bullying and harassment in the workplace. Regular weekly groups will also allow individuals supervised discussions to problem solve about their work situation.
CREATING PRODUCTS FOR GIFTS OR TO SELL
Individuals will work on a variety of ideas and create a product that can be used as a gift and or a product that can be sold thereby giving individuals a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction in creating a product that is worthy of a sale. Individuals will work on goals that include following directions, decision making, and understanding product worth and value. Products can include the following: creating labels, business cards, letterhead, note cards, greeting cards, photo calendars, or photo picture frames. All products are created on the computer so individuals with gross or fine motor issues will be able to be successful. Individuals will develop skills in learning how to package these products for gifts or to sell them at local fairs, flea markets, church or to family members. Individuals will gain knowledge in how to use these skills for an at-home business.
ENJOYING MY SPACE
Using a studio apartment, individuals will gain skills to help them maintain their personal living space including, but not limited to: learning cleaning skills to keep a home clean and healthy in all spaces; cleaning appliances; organizing cabinets; determining when cleaning is needed; using and storing cleaning chemicals and supplies; maintaining basic home care (changing a light bulb, preventing drains from clogging, recycling); accessing emergency assistance for utilities; developing an emergency plan (loss of electricity, gas leak, storm emergency, fire escape route, etc). In addition, preparing-for-guests skills will include making their space inviting, displaying courtesy and manners to make their guests feel welcome in their space; having and offering drinks and food; preparing activities for sharing and conversation.
FOOD PREPARATION AND SAFETY
Food needs to be properly stored, washed, and prepared for good health. Healthy eating and good nutrition will be reviewed for maintaining weight and reducing health complications of poor eating habits. Individuals will be able to plan a week’s menu, make a shopping list and stay within a budget. Comparison price shopping and coupon use will be gained. Food handling instruction will include learning to keep food safe, identifying how food goes bad, and determining if food has spoiled. Individuals will learn proper use of a microwave, toaster oven and blender and the related utensils, for safety, care and cleaning necessary. Storing food, checking expiration dates, cleaning spills for safety and keeping away bugs will be practiced.
GETTING READY FOR A JOB - Advanced Level Class
Individuals will gain skills to be prepared for employment by learning the necessary steps to get a job. Activities will include: determining work abilities, interests, and eligibility for work options reasonably available to them; preparing a resume; searching for jobs in the newspaper, online, in person and through contacting the county employment office (or DVR); completing job applications; role playing for job seeking and interviews; learning to dress appropriately, including posture and self-presentation. Individuals will learn about wage rates, paychecks, taking time off, company policies and discrimination issues.
I CAN DEAL WITH THAT
Individuals will gain confidence to deal with small daily issues that may arise needing special attention: first aid, using a thermometer to take their temperature, how to manage simple illnesses – cold, allergy, upset stomach, sunscreen – with over-the-counter medications; fire prevention (plugs, extension cords), smoke and CO2 alarms; why, who & how to call for emergency help (fire, police, first aid, gas company, neighbor); expiration dates, reading labels; how to identify and store medications and poisons in the home; having emergency plans for storms, and emergencies in public places.
LIFE SKILLS LUNCH
Individuals will learn to prepare breakfast and lunch for one and for guests. In addition, individuals will learn how to: read food preparation directions on boxes; make easy recipes for microwave and toaster oven cooking; choose and make a balanced healthy meal; properly set a table, and use proper manners. Students will also learn how to successfully order a meal at a cafeteria/ restaurant; order take out food and food to be delivered, understand options of ordering, determine time needed for delivery and how to pay and tip. Proper clean up and food storage is stressed. THIS CLASS IS ONLY ONE HOUR in duration, but is offered daily, 5 days a week, all year long.
SPRING CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
COMMUNITY COMPASS Advanced Level
Individuals will learn how to care for their needs by using resources in their community. Skills gained will include: locating places needed for transportation, food, shopping and medical needs; finding places online or in the phone book as well as in local newspapers; learning how to order things by phone; completing forms online; making their own appointments; and detecting a need and making contact to get public utilities to correct a problem in home (i.e., phone, cable, gas, electric). Skills to help organize their life by keeping track of information by using lists will be gained, including: phone lists of friends and important community contacts; email list; personal information; emergency information; “To-Do” lists; shopping lists; important dates; and activities lists. Different list options will be learned and regularly used, including handwritten lists, calendar books, data lists on the computer, etc.
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
Clothing tells everyone something about you. This class focuses on learning about clothing, right from their closet. Individuals will: learn to read size and care labels to make choices about purchasing and laundering; gain independence to do laundry - wash, dry and fold, hang up; and make minor clothing repairs. They will learn skills to determine how to make choices about their clothes that fit and look best on them, including determining proper sizes for clothes and shoes, purchasing clothes within a budget, and making selections for the occasion, weather and place, as well as learning how to mix and match.
ENJOYING MY SPACE
Using a studio apartment, individuals will gain skills to help them maintain their personal living space including, but not limited to: learning cleaning skills to keep a home clean and healthy in all spaces; cleaning appliances; organizing cabinets; determining when cleaning is needed; using and storing cleaning chemicals and supplies; maintaining basic home care (changing a light bulb, preventing drains from clogging, recycling); accessing emergency assistance for utilities; developing an emergency plan (loss of electricity, gas leak, storm emergency, fire escape route, etc). In addition, preparing-for-guests skills will include making their space inviting, displaying courtesy and manners to make their guests feel welcome in their space; having and offering drinks and food; preparing activities for sharing and conversation.
EVERYDAY MONEY SKILLS – Entry Level
Individuals will work on basic money skills through a variety of activities that include using computer software, money board games, simulated shopping and ordering activities. Individuals will learn the value of money and work on activities that require them to make change. The goal of this class is to provide the individual with enough knowledge that will enable them to shop and pay for items at a store and have a clear understanding of the money they need and the appropriate change returned to them. If a student cannot achieve this understanding, modifications for payment will be taught.
EVERYDAY MONEY SKILLS – Advanced Level
Individuals who are able to make change and have a good understanding of the value of money will learn about checking / savings accounts and how to work with and balance a checkbook. Individuals will work with computer software programs such as Quicken or Excel to help with budgeting and personal finances. Instruction will include how to purchase items online and learn how to pay bills both through mail and online.
FOOD PREPARATION AND SAFETY
Food needs to be properly stored, washed, and prepared for good health. Healthy eating and good nutrition will be reviewed for maintaining weight and reducing health complications of poor eating habits. Individuals will be able to plan a week’s menu, make a shopping list and stay within a budget. Comparison price shopping and coupon use will be gained. Food handling instruction will include learning to keep food safe, identifying how food goes bad, and determining if food has spoiled. Individuals will learn proper use of a microwave, toaster oven and blender and the related utensils, for safety, care and cleaning necessary. Storing food, checking expiration dates, cleaning spills for safety and keeping away bugs will be practiced.
I CAN DEAL WITH THAT
Individuals will gain confidence to deal with small daily issues that may arise needing special attention: first aid, using a thermometer to take their temperature, how to manage simple illnesses – cold, allergy, upset stomach, sunscreen – with over-the-counter medications; fire prevention (plugs, extension cords), smoke and CO2 alarms; why, who & how to call for emergency help (fire, police, first aid, gas company, neighbor); expiration dates, reading labels; how to identify and store medications and poisons in the home; having emergency plans for storms, and emergencies in public places.
LEISURE TECHNOLOGY
Individuals will learn to use the many avenues that technology offers them for leisure and recreation. Using computers and technology, individuals will learn how to independently download music; find and use safe Internet sites for games, TV shows and movies; how to use a DVD player, ipod and e-reader; how to download and save pictures; how to order take-out food by fax, phone, on-line and texting; how to shop online; and how to use email with their family and friends. Safety concerns in using the computer will be stressed. Individuals will be able to identify and use alternatives to being isolated by learning to balance quiet time, to connect with family and friends, and to participate out in community activities.
LIFE SKILLS LUNCH
Individuals will learn to prepare breakfast and lunch for one and for guests. In addition, individuals will learn how to: read food preparation directions on boxes; make easy recipes for microwave and toaster oven cooking; choose and make a balanced healthy meal; properly set a table, and use proper manners. Students will also learn how to successfully order a meal at a cafeteria/ restaurant; order take out food and food to be delivered, understand options of ordering, determine time needed for delivery and how to pay and tip. Proper clean up and food storage is stressed. THIS CLASS IS ONLY ONE HOUR in duration, but is offered daily, 5 days a week, all year long.
PICTURE THIS! DIGITAL PHOTOS AND FUN
Learn how to use a digital camera. Individuals will take pictures and learn about the many ways photos can be stored and shared, including on-line albums. Individuals will also learn how to scan or download favorite pictures into the computer and create a family photo album, photo calendars, scrapbooks and greeting cards. Goals and objectives for this class are for individuals to learn the steps involved with the start of taking a picture and then having an end result of where that picture can go to be stored, used or shared in a variety of ways.
READY TO GO
How to look your best and present yourself to others is the focus of the class. Individuals will gain skills about their hygiene and appearance: choosing and using the right products for manicures, pedicures, hair, dental and personal care; choosing appropriate clothes, based on weather, events, outings, job settings; displaying appropriate behavior, personal space, manners, etiquette and social conversation. Finally students will learn how to plan for outings in regard to: what to wear, needed supplies (drinks, jacket, sunscreen, etc), what and how to pack, how to get there, and the necessity to carry identification.
REGISTRATION
TO REGISTER, Download and Complete BOTH the "Program Registration Form" and the "RLC Policy & Guidelines for Self Directed Services Form" below and return to FRA.
Download Registration Form
Download Policy & Guidelines for Self Directed Services
In applying for our programs, participants can use various funding sources to pay for the classes. Students still in public school can have these classes included as part of their IEP and the school will pay for the ILC classes; persons who have graduated high school can use their personal budget from DDD Self-Directed Services; or they can pay out of pocket.
FRA is a State of New Jersey Department of Human Services Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) qualified provider of Self-Directed Services. Formerly known as Real Life Choices, Self Directed Services approach represents a change in the system from focusing on goals identified by professionals to outcomes developed by individuals and their families. For assistance regarding access to Self-Directed Funding, contact the Central Office for Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) toll free at 1-800-832-9173 in Trenton, NJ. For more information on Self-Directed Services, visit the website at www.fscnj.org.
