Entertainment, education, games, crafts, gardening, community outings, and exercise fill the daily agenda at the Benevilla Helping Partners Life Enrichment program (HPP). Members are involved and help direct their daily activities, including meal preparation. Indoor and outdoor spaces offer inviting opportunities for group activities or private time, just like home.
“The goal of our HPP program is to be well rounded and person-centered, addressing the unique strengths, interests, and goals of our members” states Program Director DeAndre Walker. “All people can benefit from the opportunity to connect with others in meaningful ways, no matter their age or medical diagnosis. The staff of caring professionals leading our program make sure those meaningful experiences happen every day and our members lives are positively impacted with every visit.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities report experiencing frequent mental distress almost 5 times as often as adults without disabilities. Coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, isolation, disconnection, disrupted routines, and diminished health services have greatly impacted the lives and mental well-being of people with I/D disabilities. The program activities at HPP go beyond just offering respite to caregivers. They offer numerous benefits to the members including:
Skill development: Our program focuses on developing essential life skills, including communication, socialization, personal hygiene, and daily living activities. This helps individuals become more independent and capable of managing their daily routines.
Personal growth: Intellectual challenges can sometimes limit individuals’ self-confidence and self-esteem. Our program can provide opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery. Through various activities, individuals can explore their strengths, interests, and talents, boosting their sense of self-worth and accomplishment.
Social integration: Participation in our HPP program the individual members to engage with their peers in a supportive environment. They can develop social skills, build friendships, and establish a sense of belonging. This social integration promotes emotional well-being and helps combat feelings of isolation.
Community involvement: Benevilla encourages community involvement and engagement. By participating in community activities, intellectually challenged adults can contribute to society, build connections, and develop a sense of purpose. This involvement fosters a positive relationship between the members and the community, promoting inclusion and acceptance.
Therapeutic benefits: HPP activities often incorporate various therapeutic approaches tailored to the specific needs of intellectually challenged adults. These include art therapy, music therapy, recreational therapy, and animal-assisted therapy. Such interventions can help improve cognitive, emotional, and physical well-being while enhancing creativity, self-expression, and overall quality of life.
Vocational training and employment opportunities: The Benevilla Group Supported Employment (GSE) program offers a focus on vocational training, providing individuals with skills and support to pursue employment opportunities. By acquiring job-related skills and certifications intellectually challenged adults can gain a sense of achievement, financial independence, and a purposeful role within society.
Support for families and caregivers: It goes without saying our HPP program also benefits families and caregivers by offering respite, support groups, and educational resources. Our program can provide a network of support and information, enabling families to better understand their loved ones’ needs and connect with others facing similar challenges. For every person enrolled in a Benevilla program, two people get their lives back: the individual and the caregiver.
For more information on the Benevilla Helping Partners Life Enrichment program contact Director, DeAndre Walker at (623) 815-1117. It is located in the La Ronde Shopping Center at 14601 Del Webb Blvd., Sun City, 85351
Started by the community and for the community in 1981, Benevilla is a not-for-profit human services agency dedicated to enriching lives of West Valley residents by serving older adults, adults with disabilities, children and the families who care for them. For more information on services, volunteer opportunities, to take a tour or donate to Benevilla, call 623-584-4999 or visit www.benevilla.org.