We are not just another option; we're a different path altogether! Individuals with different abilities are encouraged to grow, engage, and be the architects of their futures.

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A PROGRAM

LIKE NO OTHER

We are all about focusing on potential, not limitations. We see the person, not a diagnosis. Each individual is a world of potential, with unique dreams and necessities.

A group of volunteers outdoors, wearing matching light blue shirts, gathered together with a woman smiling at the center of the group.

A

Abilities

We focus on the unique strengths, abilities and preferences that the people who we serve bring and are committed to a person-directed approach.

Our activities aren't pre-packaged; they're crafted to explore the potential of each individual's personal abilities, aspirations, goals, and interests.

A man and a woman sitting outside at a table, engaged in a serious conversation, with the woman looking at the man attentively.

C

Community

We understand the importance of community engagement as a key indicator of quality of life.

We collaborate with dozens of organizations to go beyond the usual community-based recreational activities, focusing on providing authentic, meaningful opportunities.

Two women sitting together, one with her arm around the other, smiling and sharing a moment of connection and support.

E

Empowerment

Our role isn't to define what they can or cannot do, but to empower them to discover their strengths, and exceed their own expectations.

We deploy a strategy that makes the most of every resource to champion the empowerment of adults with developmental disabilities.

ACE PROGRAM

PILLARS

Our curriculum changes on an annual basis. To download the 2024-2025 Curriculum Review, Click Here

DANI's responsive programming utilizes dynamic group sizes, small and large, in our activities. These activities support our participants to achieve the objectives laid out in their person-directed Goal Action Plan. Activities range within these five broad categories:

The relationships our staff form with each individual and their support network allows us to prioritize and target important independent living skills unique to each person. For some, cooking and food preparation may be a priority, while for others, managing money and budgeting may be critical areas in improving their independence and quality of life. Staff creatively collaborate with the adults we serve to integrate these skills within targeted activities and daily routines.
Through our many partnerships with other not for profit organizations and private businesses, our program provides the opportunity to actively contribute to the community. Whether it be helping at a foodbank or at an animal shelter or, working part-time for a fair wage with one of our partner businesses, the DANI staff support adults with developmental disabilities to develop the skills needed to perform meaningful and valued work. We believe that knowing you have a relied upon role in your community is existential to well-being.
Through engaging, interactive experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, individuals acquire practical knowledge and skills relevant to an increasingly technological world. Programs such as Computer Literacy, Science Exploration, and Space Studies provide foundational insights into critical STEM concepts, enhancing each individual’s ability to navigate everyday life with greater independence and confidence.

Beyond skill acquisition, these programs cultivate critical thinking, self advocacy, and intellectual curiosity. Interactive and exploratory activities like science experiments and technical problem solving build confidence and resilience, enabling individuals to approach new challenges independently.
Our Health and Physical Wellness programs teach essential self care strategies in nutrition, stress management, anxiety reduction, and advocating for personal health needs.

Programs such as Active Living, Yoga and Fitness, Swimming, and Healthy Living provide practical, enjoyable opportunities for individuals to engage in physical activity and develop routines that support long term health and well being.

Improved physical fitness, strength, motor coordination, and endurance, empower individuals to lead active lives with greater autonomy.

We incorporate emotional resilience practices, helping individuals manage stress, build confidence, and achieve greater emotional balance.

Activities are carefully designed to promote lifelong health habits, ensuring participants are not only capable of making informed health choices but are also prepared to advocate effectively for their personal wellness.
At DANI, we pride ourselves in our innovative arts programming that sets us apart from others in the sector. We recognize the power of artistic expression as a tool to help individuals for self expression, self advocacy and forming a connection with their community.

DANI's annual theatre production grants the opportunity to be a member of a hardworking and collaborative theatre troupe. The annual production, held every year, for hundreds of attendees from our greater community, is the culmination of the group’s hard work, dedication and remarkable creativity.

Each year the staff supports our participants with adult appropriate visual arts programming that both fosters an appreciation for visual art and produces amazing art pieces that are presented to the community for auction each year. The themes and dazzling presentation of our Annual Art Show are the talk of the town.