Services for People ​with Disabilities​

FACILITY-BASED PRE-VOCATIONAL SERVICE:
  • DSI runs a factory in Siren where people choosing our facility-based services can learn and practice work skills.
  • We have light assembly and packaging work available with extra supports in place for those who may need them - help with math, reading, staying on task, closer supervision,  etc.
  • Pay is on a per-piece basis so there is no need to worry about losing a job because production levels are not high enough.
COMMUNITY-BASED PRE-VOCATIONAL SERVICE:​
This program works with individuals to develop skills needed for success in the competitive employment world. This is done both through small-group classroom work and in volunteer jobs in the community.
  • Time is spent in the classroom as well as in the community.
  • Classroom time is spent on learning the skills needed to get and keep a job - everything from personal hygiene, to 'good employee' behaviors, to learning about different types of jobs that are out there.
  • Time in the community is spent touring businesses to learn about what different jobs require and volunteering at different places to practice the skills we learn in an actual work setting.
Training focuses on both hands-on skills and interpersonal skills. Everyone in the program works on soft skills like; teamwork, following directions, interacting respectfully, maintaining appropriate boundaries, accepting feedback, and keeping focused on their task. Hands-on skills include things like: cleaning, sorting, packaging, shelving, resume building, filling out applications, and interviewing skills.


BLENDED DAY SERVICES PROGRAM:
Individuals in this program work on skill development and maintenance in areas such as: gross and fine motor control, communication, interpersonal skills, emotional control, citizenship, self-care and self-advocacy.

The blended day program's vision is one of community involvement. Participants go to multiple community settings to engage their learning. They volunteer with local service groups, tour local businesses, visit area museums, and meet up with others for fun activities. In addition, individuals and groups from the area are invited to come to DSI and share with us what they do. This has included police, veterans, and school clubs to name a few.