The Resource Record
portrays each agency, organization, and program in a uniform manner so that you
can more easily compare information about the resources in the Family Resources
database. The information is updated by the agency, organization or program
sponsor on a yearly basis, in quarterly cycles. To link directly to a resource's
website you can click the URL (if available).
Population Served: Infants, children and adults who are developmentally disabled
TDD:
Languages: American Sign Language, Spanish
Warmline:
Ext.:
Fax: 650-855-9710
Email: info@abilitiesunited.org
Description: Abilities United (Formerly C.A.R.) is a not-for-profit organization for people with developmental disabilities such as mental retardation, autism, and cerebral palsy, who live in the Bay Area. Abilities United has been accredited by CARF, a national accreditation commission, since 1980.
Abilities United offers services to infants, children, and adults with developmental disabilities and their families. Services include the Infant Development Program, Respite Services, Creative Recreation, L.E.A.R.N., Independent Living Services, Employment Services, and the Betty Wright Swim Center.
Through this range of lifetime services, Abilities United
- Reduces and prevents developmental delays
- Supports families and caregivers
- Teaches community living skills
- Provides job placement and support
- Educates the community
- Creates community partnerships
- Enables people with developmental disabilities to continue to be valued members of the community
Ablities United services are funded through a combination of public and private support including: California Department of Rehabilitation and Developmental Services; City of Palo Alto; City of Sunnyvale; gifts from individuals, foundations, and corporations; United Way-Silicon Valley; and fundraising events. Referrals are made through the San Andreas and Golden Gate Regional Centers or through Physicians for the Betty Wright Swim Center@ Abilities United---------------------------Ablities United's seven programs serving people with developmental disabilities include:
Infant Development (Infants birth to 3 years old): Offers in-home and center-based services for children experiencing developmental delays or risk of delay. A multi-disciplinary team of special educators and therapists provides structured developmental and educational opportunities. Parent participation and extensive family support are integral parts of this service.
Creative Recreation (Children and adults 5 to 22 years old): Offers socialization and daycare for young people with developmental disabilities in a creative and safe after-school program throughout the year and in day camps during some school holidays.
Respite Services (All ages): Highly trained home companions provide support for parents caring for their child with a developmental disability. Companions work in people’s homes and in varied community settings. Serves families in Santa Clara, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito counties.
L.E.A.R.N. (Learning Experiences for Adults with Real Needs) (Adults 22 to 59 years old): Promotes life skills and provides training in community settings for adults with various disabilities. Activities to promote optimal integration and socialization are conducted five days a week at Abilities United and in the community.
Independent Living Skills (ILS) (Adults 22 to 59 years old): Offers assessment, daily living skills, self-advocacy training, and support with any issues that challenge the independence of adults with developmental disabilities in their day-to-day living. Provides assistance in securing housing options to promote and maintain successful community living.
Employment Services (Adults 22 to 59 years old): Creates effective job matches and provides training and support for people with developmental and other disabilities to meet employer needs and work successfully in the community.
The Betty Wright Swim Center @ Abilities United (All Ages, with and without disabilities): A warm-water, fully accessible aquatic therapy, fitness, and recreation facility. Adapted aquatics, swim lessons, and aquatic therapy, fitness, and relaxation classes are available to the public. Specializes in promoting health, wellness, and independence, and in serving the physically and developmentally challenged.
Address: Abilities United (Formerly C.A.R.)
525 East Charleston Road Palo Alto, CA
94306-4247
Transporation: SAMTrans, VTA stop within 1 block
Accessibility: Wheelchair/parking/ramp/restroom
Disabilities / Special Needs: Developmental and other disabilities
