Horizons of Tuscarawas and Carroll Counties, Inc. has been a cornerstone of support for individuals with developmental disabilities since 1976. Born from a parent’s heartfelt wish to ensure her adult child with developmental disabilities could live at home rather than in an institution after her passing, Horizons Inc. embodies a commitment to community-based care. As a private, non-profit organization, Horizons Inc. focuses on delivering tailored services to meet the diverse needs of people with developmental disabilities across Tuscarawas and Carroll Counties. Starting with a commitment to 24 individuals, Horizons Inc. has grown to serve over 70 individuals within residential settings, constantly broadening its reach and impact, much like Horizon Transportation aims to expand opportunities and access for those it serves.
About Horizons Inc.: Providing Comprehensive DD Services
Horizons Inc. stands as a dedicated private, non-profit agency deeply committed to fulfilling the varied needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. Expanding its service areas, Horizons Inc. currently extends its compassionate care and professional services across six counties, ensuring a wider net of support for those who require it:
- Coshocton
- Harrison
- Jefferson
- Tuscarawas
- Wayne
This expanded reach demonstrates Horizons Inc.’s ongoing dedication to bringing vital services closer to individuals and families in need.
Comprehensive Services for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities
At the heart of Horizons Inc.’s mission is an unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive and adaptable services for individuals with developmental disabilities. To ensure the highest quality of care, Horizons Inc. employs over 178 dedicated professionals, each trained to meet the specific needs of the individuals they support. Recognizing that needs vary greatly, Horizons Inc. is structured to accommodate any schedule of support required, whether it’s round-the-clock care, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or focused assistance for just a few hours each day, week, or month. This flexibility ensures that every individual receives the precise level of support they need to thrive.
Horizons Inc. offers two primary service roles:
Homemaker Personal Care Professional (HPCP): HPCPs are essential in providing daily support and teaching individuals crucial skills for independent living within their homes and communities. These self-help goals are meticulously detailed within each individual’s Individual Service Plan (ISP), encompassing areas such as personal care, financial literacy, health management, safety practices, community engagement, and residential skills.
Direct Support Professional (DSP): DSPs offer direct care and supervision to individuals residing in intermediate care facilities (ICFs). Following the guidelines of the individual’s ISP, DSPs assist with self-help training, accompany individuals to medical appointments, and facilitate participation in community activities, ensuring holistic support and integration.
Training and Development: Ensuring Quality Care
Horizons Inc. places a significant emphasis on continuous training and professional development for all employees. This commitment ensures that every individual served receives the highest standard of care from a well-equipped and highly competent team. All employees who provide direct services are required to achieve certification in several critical areas, including:
- Direct Support Professional training
- CPR/AED/First Aid certification
- Medication Administration certification
- MUI/UI Training (Major Unusual Incident/Unusual Incident)
- Non-Violent Crisis Intervention techniques
- Fire and Emergency Response Training
This rigorous training program underscores Horizons Inc.’s dedication to not only meeting but exceeding the standards of care in the field of developmental disability services. The goal is to empower individuals to achieve maximum independence and enjoy an enhanced quality of life within comfortable, home-like residential settings.
Horizon Transportation Services: Expanding Community Access
Recognizing the vital role of transportation in fostering independence and community engagement, Horizons Inc. actively participates in a collaborative transportation initiative. Partnering with the Tuscarawas County Senior Center and Society for Equal Access, Horizons Inc. is a key part of the Tusc.Transit Transportation Program. This program is designed to provide accessible horizon transportation options for a broad spectrum of the community, including individuals with developmental disabilities, low-income populations, senior citizens, and others throughout Tuscarawas County who face transportation challenges. Partially funded by a grant from the Ohio Department of Transportation, Tusc.Transit significantly enhances the ability of individuals to access essential services, participate in community life, and broaden their personal horizons. This crucial service embodies the spirit of horizon transportation, breaking down barriers and connecting people to opportunities.
Conclusion: Broadening Horizons for Individuals with DD
Horizons Inc. remains steadfast in its mission to create supportive, home-like environments and provide comprehensive services that enhance the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. From personalized care plans to essential horizon transportation services, Horizons Inc. is dedicated to fostering independence, dignity, and community inclusion, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential and broaden their horizons.
