Brain Injury Residential Services
What began in 2002 as an effort to provide residential services to people with a brain injury has evolved into one of the largest providers of state of the art services for people with acquired and traumatic brain injuries in the state of Massachusetts. This service has continued to grow and now includes supports for those struggling with mental illness. At Berkshire County Arc, we have created a true home; with an enhanced environment for individuals with brain injuries and mental illness to relearn old skills, develop new skills and increase their self-esteem by successfully reaching personal goals while restoring them back to their communities. The Brain Injury Services team works collaboratively with MRC BI&SSCS, DDS-ABI and DMH to provide these support services.
Berkshire County Arc staff members have assisted over 45 individuals with transitioning from a nursing home or rehabilitation setting to becoming active and contributing members of their communities in both the Pioneer Valley and Berkshire County. This is accomplished though personalized, well-designed services provided in homes that create an environment in which individuals can thrive.
Our PET (Personal Effectiveness Training) Program creates opportunities to provide individualized services for each person in the areas of: personal exploration, health and wellness, skill training, leisure development, community skill development and social decision making. Skill training activities that are offered include: social and life skills group activities, cooking, shopping and nutrition, fitness and wellness, healthy lifestyles, money management, current events, falls prevention, disability awareness, and independent living skills.
The TREK (Therapeutic Recreation, Education & Knowledge) Program helps individuals accept their physical and emotional challenges by assisting in the development of alternative ways of performing tasks and activities. It also provides an opportunity to enhance memory, develop problem solving skills, improve judgment and other executive functions through the use of assistive technology and other appropriate devices or situations. In addition, TREK builds upon such skills as reading, writing, arithmetic, planning and executing activities.
Our Community Connections Program continues to be a success in assisting individuals to
find meaningful volunteer opportunities in the community in a supported environment. This allows individuals the opportunity to provide a valuable service in their community, develop basic work skills and increase their self-esteem. Individuals have volunteered in a variety of settings, including but not limited to: Sonsini Animal Shelter, Guthrie Center, Soldier On, Berkshire Humane Society, Toys for Tots, Pittsfield City Hall, Housatonic Beautiful Committee, church soup kitchens, Westfield Regional Animal Shelter, and The Giving Garden. In addition, each year individuals have joined their communities through participating in events aimed at raising awareness for Brain Injury, Multiple Sclerosis and Down Syndrome through building teams and walking to show their support.
Each fully accessible residence boasts large, spacious and private bedrooms with a shared bathroom. Overhead motorized lift systems are installed as needed. An open community floor plan with universal design features allows for increased independence for those with physical challenges. Each amazing home features roll in showers, jet tub, front loading washer and dryer, gas fire place, outdoor living space and elevated garden beds.
Contact Us
Scott Barschdorf
sbarschdorf@bcarc.org
413-441-3547 ext.15
