DDS believes that individuals who are integrated in their communities live a happier, healthier life. We provide opportunities for adults to find and maintain employment, learn life skills, and build meaningful connections — with the ultimate goal of living as independently as possible.
DDS offers adults with intellectual delays a variety of community support services: including, In-Home Community Support, Companionship and Respite Services.
We believe that through greater independence, individuals are able to experience a higher quality of life.
The DDS Competitive Employment Program, sometimes known as Job-Coaching, trains employees on the job site, as opposed to traditional facility based training. Employment Specialists assist persons with disabilities to acquire, learn and maintain community based employment. Training is individually tailored to meet the needs and interests of the individual and is conducted on a one-to-one basis. Individuals receive real wages for real work and are gainfully employed.
Employers have recognized this group of capable persons in the work force and the many benefits received though employing persons with disabilities. The Employment Specialist works on your job site providing training for the new employee at no cost. There is no cost to the employer or the participant of the Developmental and Disability Services Competitive Employment Program. All services at DDS seek to create opportunities for persons with disabilities that foster growth, development, self-esteem, dignity, and choice.
DDS is part of a Lebanon County coalition to promote employment of people with disabilities.
Every year Work with Us hosts a banquet to honor local employees who excel at promoting their full potential along with employers who have displayed impeccable support to all employees regardless of disability. Award recipients embody the spirit of advocacy as they develop their efforts to employ persons with disabilities and making the challenge of working with a disability much easier.
If you, or you know someone who is making great strides in overcoming challenges of employment, we encourage you to nominate them to receive this award.
DDS offers adults with intellectual delays a variety of community support services including, In-Home Community Support, Companionship and Respite Services.
In Lebanon County, individuals and families should contact Service Access Management (SAM) at 717-769-6374 to learn more about available services.
