New Avenues to Independence, Inc.                Providing services for individuals with disabilities since 1952.

New Avenues' Transitional Respite Program is a residential service option for individuals with mental retardation and/or developmental disabilities (MR/DD) who are in residential crisis. Transitional respite is different than traditional respite services. Transitional respite is a preparatory environment for stable living environment. After 30 days of enrollment, the program conforms to requirements established by the Ohio Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities rules for licensed facilities.

In 1996, we were approved to provide services at our Main Campus in Cuyahoga County. Our Transitional Respite Program includes housing (individual rooms for up to four consumers at any given time), board, nursing supports, and recreation in a nurturing and supportive environment. Staff to consumer ratios are tailored to meet the health and safety needs of each enrollee. Traditionally, the length of stay averages between two weeks and six months.

New Avenues provides optional services to all Transitional Respite consumers. These services include:

Eligibility and Referral Process

Children or adults with mental retardation and/or developmental disabilities may be considered for Transitional Respite services. Most referrals for Transitional Respite services are received by New Avenues from Northeast Ohio County Boards of Mental Retardation. However, arrangements can also be made directly with New Avenues for private referrals.

Exit Process

Because this is a transitional program, one of the areas of focus is the consumer’s next placement. The exit planning process begins at entry into the Transitional Respite Program, working in tandem with the referral source. During this planning process, a comprehensive summary report is developed. The report includes:

• Staff observations

• Skills assessments

• Behavioral assessment

• Medical assessment, and

• Diagnostic evaluations results

• Recommendations for suitability for placement options

To learn how you can support the Transitional Respite Program, view our wish list (PDF).

To learn more about New Avenues and the Transitional Respite Program, contact Daryl.

Copyright © 2004 - 2007 New Avenues to Independence, Inc. All rights reserved.
Revised: December 03, 2007.