However, visits are made when the people are home so that volunteers have the opportunity to ask questions of the men and women, as well as to observe interactions between the staff members and the people who live in the home. Volunteers are asked to visit one home a month. Currently, nearly 150 volunteers visit almost 6,000 people living in group homes throughout Michigan. All information gathered from the visits is used for local advocacy efforts, as well as statewide systems change through a computer database. Volunteers also have the access to visit day activity programs, sheltered workshops, nursing homes, and regional centers.
All volunteers receive thorough training prior to conducting visits.
Through the training, volunteers learn not only to advocate on behalf of the individuals in the home, but also to advise staff members about ways to achieve better outcomes for people. Some Arc chapters have elected to participate in a more individualized aspect of Dignified Lifestyles. Given the name Community Connections, volunteers get to know individuals, their hopes and dreams, and then strive to attain the persons' desired outcomes. South Washington Ave. Lansing, MI 48910 517.487.5426, ext.