Community Support Services
Vocational Training
At the Center's Community Support Services we recognize that work skills are crucial for independent functioning. The vocational training program, through supervised group job activities, teaches consumers important skills that they can apply when seeking employment.
The Flower Box, a fully operational greenhouse, provides the East Central Illinois community with plants that are grown, tended and sold by individuals with disabilities. Consumer workers in the Building and Grounds division of the Center learn janitorial skills. Other consumers study data entry or volunteer within the region.
Read the Journal Gazette article, April 28, 2008!
In the photo: LifeLinks staff members Blossum Ford, left, and Christie Bloxom, right, assist Kathy Garrett, counselor and greenhouse manager, in potting some plants at the recently relocated Flower Box greenhouse at the former Blaw-Knox campus on the east side of Mattoon. (Photo by Nathaniel West/Staff, Journal Gazette/Times Courier)
Consumers Aspiring Toward Success (CATS)
CATS is modeled on the idea that group sessions have impact and are powerful. These groups allow consumers to receive input and feedback from professional counselors as well as their peers. Group foci include topics such as:
- symptom management
- empowerment strategies
- relapse prevention
- self-esteem
- leadership
- mediation
- life management skills
- anger management
- money management
Drop in Socialization
Research shows isolation and a lack of socialization have inhibited the recovery of individuals with mental illness. At the Center we believe in the impact of engagement. A broad array of individual and group activities helps the consumer to get involved. Crafts are a big part of drop in activities. Activities such as cookouts, pool and bingo provide an opportunity for consumers to interact with peers in a safe environment. PSR staff also assist consumers to understand their disease process and work with them to find ways to cope with distressing symptoms.
Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR)
PSR programs emphasize three things:
- the enhancement of independent functioning
- healthy lifestyles
- community integration
Individuals with a severe and persistent mental illness face many daily challenges. The specially trained PSR staff work with each person to identify their goals and needs, as well as their strengths.
Case Management
We help consumers enhance vital living skills and meet basic necessities like housing, food and employment. Our counselors work with the consumer to address symptom management, skill development and problem resolution.
To inquire about any of the community support services call (217) 238-5701.
750 Broadway Avenue East, Mattoon, Illinois 61938 (217) 238-5700
