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into the community for leisure activities, volunteer opportunities and more, at least once per week. Through their group model, individuals choose what they would like to participate in for the day and are grouped with different peers and leaders daily, fostering even more social growth and engagement on a consistent basis. For individuals with higher medical needs, the day habilitation service has classrooms aimed at cultivating skills, from sewing and art, to cooking and computer usage. Nurses are on hand to care for any specific needs requiring medical assistance. For many attending GROW, their goal is securing employment. Some may not have the skills to be independently employed, but the staff works to get them on a pathway to doing so, helping them develop skills and overcome many of the obstacles faced in securing and maintaining a job. From resume building and interview readiness, to email and web help for hiring sites, the staff is committed to leading those they serve toward these pivotal goals. Not only does GROW provide job coaching services in-house, but transportation is also provided to and from the place of employment. A job coach will even visit the job site to work with the employer, ensuring a positive experience for both parties by providing tools that help them best communicate. Beyond teaching job skills, GROW helps individuals learn other important skills which are crucial to independent living. In their practice kitchen, they teach cooking and help individuals learn to live on their own and be self-sufficient. At GROW, team members and staff are facilitators. They are part of the process, working together with those they serve, teaching and creating bonds which help build confidence. Similarly, families and caregivers are an integral part of the GROW model, as well. Any time a new individual wants to join the program, the team works in partnership with the family to ensure there is an understanding of expectations and that goals are worked on at GROW, at home and beyond. When we grow together, stay connected and help our neighbors in need, we strengthen our communities. GROW has been connecting people with opportunities since 1973, when a group of parents got together to find a way to enrich their children's lives. Having started out in a small schoolhouse in Randolph, GROW has called many neighboring cities home over the years, but recently moved back to Randolph, securing a permanent location on Mazzeo Drive. As a non-profit organization, GROW Associates relies on state funding, as well as donations and partnerships from the community to provide these critical programs to those they serve. Currently, the staffing shortage is impacting GROW's ability to serve as many people who need and would greatly benefit from these day services. Luckily, there are many ways members of the community can get involved. To donate or learn more, visit grow-associates.org. For information on how your business can partner, volunteer, donate or provide jobs and other opportunities, email info@grow-associates.org. 24 781.961.6700 / 68 Mazzeo Drive / Randolph / grow-associates.org