Make a Difference publishes the wish lists of non-profit organizations. If you know of a group that could use specific items, please contact Meredith Moss: MMoss@coxohio.com
Please tell us about the organization, who it serves, what’s needed and please leave a daytime phone number.
Choices In Community Living has been helping folks with autism, Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy and other developmental disabilities since 1985.
“We provide homes and services for 235 people in Montgomery, Clark, Madison and Preble counties,” explains executive director Tom Weaver. “Home, family and community are at the center of our mission, of everything we do.”“
Their continuum of residential services includes group home living, semi-independent living in apartments and support for individuals living in their own homes.
“In addition to residential services, we provide an innovative Adult Day Services program in partnership with area YMCAs, non-medical transportation, and respite services,” Weaver said. “Our newest service, our Host Home program, provides opportunities for people in the community to open their homes to people with developmental disabilities on a long-term basis, with support from our staff.”
Through a collaborative partnership with Partners For Community Living, Choices also hosts year-long events such as the Partners Fish ‘N Chips Fish Fry, and Art & Soul, the 22-county juried art exhibit for artists with developmental disabilities that’s produced in partnership with Toward Independence. There is also an annual Bowl-A-Thon, and a Dining with the Stars event.
“We have held our annual Choices Talent Show in October for almost 25 years,” Weaver said.
Here’s the wish list that can help enhance the quality of life for those served by Choices:
- an iPad for David, who is hearing-impaired, to assist with communication
- Board games
- DVDs, especially Disney films
- CDs, country, pop and other music
- Play Station III and games
- Model/hobby kits — cars, trucks, etc.
- Gift cards for shoes and clothing
- Restaurant and/or movie gift cards to support community involvement and participation
- Monetary donations in any amount to help with the purchase of beds and other furniture and the purchase of critically needed accessible vans.
Donations may be dropped off at the Choices In Community Living offices, 1651 Needmore Road, Dayton. Hours for drop-off are 8:30-4:30 Monday-Friday.
Monetary donations may be made online at the organization’s secure website, www.partnersohio.com. Donations are tax-deductible and may also be sent to 1651 Needmore Road, Dayton, 45414.
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