A
Disability Services Organization
WHO
WE ARE...
DIAL, Inc. is a Center for Independent
Living, which is part of a statewide network of non-residential
centers designed and operated to provide services to individuals
with significant disabilities. DIAL, Inc. is organized and
operatedas a 501 © 3 non-profit agency. These services
include: Information and Referral, Advocacy, Peer Support,
and Independent Living Skills Training. The agency has a 25-year
history of serving consumers living with disabilities that
reside in Passaic and Essex Counties. DIAL, Inc. promotes
the full inclusion of all people living with disabilities
into society and encourage our consumers and the community
at large to seek involvement in this self-governing organization
to the fullest extent.
WHAT
WE DO...
Information and Referral
The information and referral service informs persons with
disabilities of resources that will assist them in attaining
an independent lifestyle. DIAL, Inc. has a complete on-site
resource center for people to visit to gain comprehensive
information on disabilities, service and relevant issues.
Peer
Counseling
DIAL, Inc. matches individuals with others who share the same
disability or similar circumstances. This level of support
commonly leads to a new lifestyle and stage of independence.
Peer
Support Hot-Line
Volunteer peer support telephone contact is made once a week
to persons enrolled in this program. Consumers have
the opportunity to obtain peer support from a volunteer.
Deaf/HoH Outreach Program
Staff member proficient in American Sign Language is available
by appointment twice a week to help assist consumers, who
are hard of hearing and/or deaf with accessing independent
living services.
Advocacy
DIAL, Inc. provides individual and community advocacy.
Consumer advocacy involves members, volunteers and staff initiating
change in the community to enhance independent living.
Independent Living Skills Training
In an effort to develop the independent living skills for
persons with disabilities, DIAL, Inc. provides various workshops
designed to improve these skills. These workshops have
included Social Security, civil rights, the legislative process,
effective utilization of community services, human relations,
personal safety, job seeking skills and newsletter production.
Independent Living Plan Program
Persons with disabilities set personal goals to attain an
independent lifestyle. These goals are met through a
self-assessment, established action plan and peer counseling.
Community Education/Minority Outreach
DIAL, Inc. provides speakers and public educational activities
for civic groups, corporations, educational facilities and
human service agencies. The programs are tailored to the audience
and could address such areas as attitudinal and physical barriers,
disability, education, sexuality, employment and promoting
the abilities of persons with disabilities. DIAL, Inc.
also publishes a newspaper (DIAL: The Answer) highlighting
local, state and national issues and programs.
Recreation and Social Activities
DIAL, Inc. also directs the St. Brendan’s Recreation
Program on Tuesdays and Thursdays, for Passaic County residents
with disabilities. The program offers arts and crafts, speakers,
day trips, socialization and games. |
