Residential, rehabilitative, and social support for individuals with brain injury
Who We Help
People living with the continuing effects of a brain injury – whether caused by trauma or a medical event – face daily challenges as they adjust to the injury’s impact on their lives and on their families. They may now need to re-learn skills and knowledge they once took for granted, including speaking and walking.
The individuals living in our residences and participating in our Enrichment Center and Strive Clinic come from diverse backgrounds; they have been store managers, students, construction workers, homemakers, professors, and much more.
Each brings a unique experience and perspective to their recovery process, and our approach helps people make the most of their interests, strengths, and talents.
Residential Services
ServiceNet has become widely recognized for the high quality of service we provide in our attractive residences for individuals with brain injuries. These homes are located in neighborhoods throughout western Massachusetts, and each is designed to provide the kind of comfortable atmosphere we would want for anyone we love.
In addition to these group residences, we provide several supported apartments and shared living options throughout the community.
Supported apartments are an option for individuals who are ready to live more independently, with continuing support from our outreach team.
Shared Living gives individuals with brain injuries the opportunity to live with people in the community who have chosen to open their homes and provide needed structure and support. Matches are often made based on interests shared by hosts and participants—from art, music, and sports to volunteering.
Enrichment Center
The Enrichment Center in Chicopee is a day program that helps people with brain injuries to become more functional and engaged with others. Participants are recognized for their unique talents, and are encouraged to share their knowledge with their peers. Our goal is to provide a fulfilling experience for participants in their journey through rehabilitation and reintegration into the community.
Social programming is flexible and dynamic, and participants choose from an array of activities at the centers as well as in their communities. These include:
- Support groups
- Social events
- Crafts, board games, and yoga
- Music and dance sessions
- Computer skills, games, and online research
- Bowling, museums, and movie theater trips
- Sporting events and restaurants
- Equestrian and cycling therapy
Physical, occupational, and speech therapy are provided as needed, and are overseen by licensed professionals.
Strive Clinic
The Strive Clinic in Holyoke offers physical, occupational, and speech & language therapy to individuals with brain injury who qualify for services under the ABI/MFP waiver.
The Strive Clinic is designed specifically for those who prefer a limited contact/by-appointment-only option rather than the Enrichment Center’s full day program.
Family and Friends
We work with family members and friends to support our program participants in living as independently as possible – scheduling regular network meetings, and offering educational sessions about various aspects of brain injury.
For further resources that may help in caring for a loved one with a brain injury, visit the Brain Injury Association of America’s website.
Shared Living - Employment Opportunity
We provide hosts with training and ongoing support in their work with people who often struggle with some of the daily tasks of living. Program staff help hosts facilitate individuals’ employment, health appointments, and recreation. Participants in the program have coordinated care plans, including clinical and rehabilitative support from providers at ServiceNet and in the community.
Application Process
Shared Living may be an employment option for you if:
- You enjoy working with people
- You welcome the chance to learn from a person who experiences the world in unique and sometimes challenging ways
- You would like to provide an individual with disabilities the same kind of care you would to a family member
Hosts are paid a monthly stipend for their time, and receive funds to cover the individual’s living expenses. To learn more, contact the Human Resources office (413) 387-1110 or email [email protected]
Internships
We offer several internship opportunities at the Enrichment Center in Chicopee, from one-day shadowing experiences to full-time rotations. We are affiliated with educational programs from local colleges and universities, including Springfield College, University of Massachusetts, Bay Path University, Westfield State University, and Western New England University.
Our interns work with their assigned supervisor to learn the skills and responsibilities related to their specific area of focus. We offer structured observation, mentorship, and hands-on practice.
We also offer other educational collaborations with area institutions.
To learn more about these opportunities, contact Ellen Werner at (413) 588-7235 or [email protected]
