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Devereux Pocono awarded $5,000 grant to help individuals build valuable life skills

Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Pocono was recently awarded a $5,000 grant from The John and Helen Villaume Foundation to support the center’s adult day programs.

The grant will be used to help Devereux Pocono continue to assist individuals living with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences in building essential life skills.

“We want to thank The Villaume Foundation for awarding us this generous grant to help those we serve not only acquire valuable skills, but also boost their self-confidence and self-esteem, and increase their overall self-awareness,” said Devereux Pocono Executive Director Tina Skoda. “Our adult day programs offer individuals the opportunity to participate in recreational activities, integrate into the community, and socialize with members of the community, as well as their peers.”

Building life skills

Devereux Pocono’s day programs provide individualized training for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them acquire skills related to: following instructions, task completion, problem-solving, critical thinking, self-care and personal hygiene.

The program also is designed for high school students who have graduated or are preparing to graduate. Devereux Pocono partners with school districts to develop a transition plan, as part of the student’s individualized education plan process.

“Individuals who participate in our day programs have the opportunity to be part of the community and give back – whether by volunteering with organizations, such as Meals on Wheels, or assisting with activities, such as recycling,” Skoda explained. “Our goal is to help those in our care learn new skills, increase their independence and thrive.”

About The Villaume Foundation

The John and Helen Villaume Foundation, established by Wayne County, Pennsylvania, natives John and Helen Villaume, was created to benefit charitable, religious, scientific, literary and educational programs within Wayne County. The Foundation provides grants to organizations that work to strengthen communities and enrich the lives of residents.

Learn more about Devereux Pocono, and learn more about Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.

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