CLASS

Disabilities are not a barrier to working. At CLASS, tomorrow's workers are learning and using new skills, preparing to embark on their paths of employment. With the help of side-by-side job coaching and supports, they examine the possibilities, explore careers and try their hand at various jobs, such as assembly work in the CLASS production facility. With their job development plans tailored to their needs, people with disabilities discover what's possible and become ready to choose jobs that suit them. Working promotes self-esteem, builds independence and gives the individual a sense of accomplishment ... pride of a job well done. And while your family members are working they will continue to receive support from CLASS career specialists who care about their success. Employment Assistance Programs Include: Individualized job placement, On-site, facility-based jobs, Group community placements, Social enterprise businesses, Vending, and Social catalyst.

Tools to enhance everyday living are within your grasp. A cane, a hearing aid, a computer … Sometimes a simple piece of technology can make all the difference in accessibility to everyday things. For some, walking through the front door, talking on the phone or changing a television channel can be very challenging. Technology can help. CLASS staff members work with disabled individuals and their families to find the right technology to make living in the physical world more manageable: to communicate effectively, live more independently and pursue their goals more completely. At CLASS in Lawrence we have an Assistive Technology Demonstration Center where you can try the equipment to see if it is right for you or your loved one - so you can try it before you buy it. We also offer a variety of services and one-on-one consultation. We're happy to prepare a quote for you based on your needs. CLASS has a regional contract with the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, through the local Vocational Rehabilitation offices, to provide Adaptive Assistance services to the North Shore and Northeastern area of the state.

Adult Foster Care Caring for an at-home adult is hard work and the financial burden can be intimidating. The CLASS Adult Family/Foster Care (AFC) program gives families clinical and financial assistance to help them care for their loved one with developmental disabilities at home. A qualified caregiver will teach families how to manage everyday challenges - such as personal care, meals and supervision - to give them more time to enjoy the everyday triumphs. Through the the Arc of Greater Lawrence, CLASS helps families help each other. The Arc of Greater Lawrence provides inclusive recreational programming for youth living in the Greater Lawrence community. We bring together youth with disabilities and their peers without disabilities to enjoy such recreational and educational activities as music, arts & crafts, swimming, computer lessons, kayaking, snowshoeing, and other outdoor activities. This focus on inclusive recreation supports the desire of families to have their children enjoying all their community has to offer.