"I like being able to learn new things. These classes have been great for me and my family."
Search Adult Learning services are day programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Services are provided at four program locations, in Chicago, Evanston, Mt. Prospect and Waukegan. Over 400 individuals attend daily. More like continuing education than traditional developmental training, Adult Learning services are curriculum based and community inclusive.
Search's one-of-a-kind Glidepath Curriculum offers a rich combination of subject areas and experiences designed to appeal to a broad range of interests. Curriculum topics include creative arts, health and wellness, personal development, sensory integration, work skills, internet literacy and skills for life. Opportunities for community integration are built into the curriculum and connect community excursions back to classroom instruction.
Daily schedules are built on the interests, abilities and preferences of each participant, with new curriculum topics and activities introduced every 12 weeks. State of the art computer labs, WIFI access and the availability of iPads provide participants with new tools for enhanced learning.
Specialized services are available for individuals with autism, sensory defensiveness and communication challenges. These services focus on personalized sensory diets, providing the sensory input individuals need to stay focused and organized throughout the day.
Search's Service Facilitation program connects individuals and families with home-based funding to a variety of community-based resources and opportunities. Service facilitators work closely with each individual and his or her family to create a plan that reflects their desired goals, preferences and needs. By choosing Search, individuals have access to a growing referral network of quality disability, medical, social, behavioral and educational services.
The No Boundaries Program provides an innovative alternative to traditional adult day services through flexible community-based programs with a focus on employment and community integration. No Boundaries takes place in the community where individuals access resources, achieve personal goals and engage in a variety of work and volunteer experiences. Services and activities support the desire to increase independence, self-confidence and self-esteem, while enhancing basic social and employment skills.
See our No Boundaries website for more information and to find dates and times for upcoming information sessions!
Visibility Arts is a comprehensive visual arts program that offers a combination of group learning experiences and hands-on studio time, where individuals apply what they have learned. Activities provide a variety of opportunities for self-expression, creativity and achievement. Drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture are just some of the creative mediums explored. The 7,000 square foot Visibility Arts program space includes fully equipped studio facilities and a spacious gallery for exhibitions. Individuals in the program meet and learn from other local artists. They also enjoy opportunities to show and sell their work in a variety of galleries and public venues.
Visit our Visibility Arts website page to find out more or attend an upcoming art show!
Spark your passion for learning and fun! Ignite is a series of late afternoon classes for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Each class has a different topic or theme and builds useful skills for community life. Ignite course offerings have included such diverse topics as yoga, drawing, cooking and goal attainment.
Enjoy a great educational experience in a relaxing, fun environment. Ignite classes are small so instructors can focus on responding to everyone's needs and adapt their teaching strategies to fit the audience. Classes are 90 minutes in length and run once a week for a 12 week period at locations in Mt. Prospect and Chicago.
Visit our Ignite webpage to learn more about this special program.