SOCIAL AND RECREATION

The "About Town" socialization/recreation training will be provided in natural settings in the community. Curriculum materials will include, but not be limited to, "Training for Independent Living" and "Yes I can...Live and Work in the Community" published by RPM Press and "Becoming Independent: A Living Skills System" published by Edmark Associates. Training will address individual consumer needs as identified in the IPP. Consumers will be encouraged and assisted to make choices for themselves with consideration given to factors influencing those choices such as transportation, cost, availability, and safety. Training areas will include the following:

1. Recreation/Leisure Skills Development
   Training in this area is designed to assist consumers in planning, accessing, and participating in various community based activities. Sporting events, movies, dining out, adult classes through high school or college, and seasonal activities such as local fair, Harvest Festival, Old Timers Day Parade activities, outdoor farmers market are examples of events available to consumers evenings and weekends.



2. Communication/Socialization
   This training focuses on the development of appropriate communication and social interactions in order to increase the consumers' ability to maintain independence and to advocate for themselves in a positive and constructive manner. This training is also intended to help the consumer develop and maintain positive relationships with family, friends, and persons in the community.



3. Community Awareness/Self-advocacy
   This training is intended to familiarize the consumer with community based facilities. Consumers will learn how to use various businesses, agencies, and community resources such as transportation systems (Dial-A-Ride, Fixed Route System, Taxi, Bus, Train), grocery, hardware, drug stores, specialty stores, bank, library, museums, chamber of commerce, the police, fire department, emergency procedures, voting process, self-advocacy training, etc.

This service is available to individuals living in Madera and Mariposa Counties.