Empowering Independence Program

After receiving a federal AmeriCorps Community Care ​Corp grant award, ALMS began implementing an ​empowering independence program to enhance community ​engagement at each food pantry location. This is ALMS’ ​flagship initiative to enhance support for seniors, ​individual with IDD, and family caregivers in the New York ​Metro area.


This comprehensive program addresses challenges that ​limit independence and community involvement for ​homebound seniors, offering aid for nonmedical tasks for ​homebound seniors, access to food, technology training, ​language translation, and opportunities for social ​interaction. It uniquely involves individuals with an IDD in ​community service, fostering inclusivity and providing ​invaluable work experience. The program also support ​family caregivers with respite services, emotional support, ​and social opportunities, leveraging intergenerational ​volunteers to create an inclusive community network.



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Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)


They are conditions that affect a person's cognitive and/or ​physical development. These disabilities typically appear ​before age 18 and can impact various aspects of daily life, ​including learning, language, and self-care skills. IDD ​encompasses a wide range of conditions, such as Down ​syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, and cerebral palsy. ​People with IDD often face challenges in areas like ​communication, social interaction, and independent living. ​However, with proper support and accommodations, ​individuals with IDD can lead fulfilling lives and contribute ​meaningfully to their communities. Support programs aim to ​enhance their quality of life, promote inclusion, and help ​them reach their full potential.

Societal Challenges ​Addressed

Social isolation of ​Homebound Seniors

With an increasing number of ​seniors opting to age in place, ​the risk of social isolation and ​the ensuing psychological ​impacts have become ​prominent. The program’s ​nonmedical assistance and social ​interaction opportunities ​directly combat these issues.

Technological Divide


As the world shifts into the digital ​age, a significant portion of our ​senior population is left behind ​due to a lack of technological ​literacy. The technology training ​component of the Empowering ​Independence Program is essential ​to bridge this divide.

Language barriers


Language translation services are ​critical in ensuring that non-English ​speaking seniors have access to vital ​information and services, fostering a ​more inclusive community

Limited Opportunities for ​individuals with IDD

The program provides a unique ​platform for individuals with IDD to ​engage in meaningful community ​service, enhancing their skills and ​emotional well-being.

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Adopt A Senior

The program will pair College Volunteers with ​Seniors in our communities in order to ​encourage them to go outside, shop, make ​medical appointments, or just have a visitor ​come by their home once a week.


·Training and orientation sessions will be ​provided to ensure that volunteers are well-​prepared and understand the needs and ​preferences of the seniors they will be assisting. ​Activities will range from simple ​companionship, such as playing board games or ​sharing stories, to more active engagements like ​attending community events or going for walks ​in the park.


·We believe that TETA will not only benefit ​the seniors but also enrich the lives of the ​young volunteers, creating a more connected ​and compassionate community. We are ​currently recruiting volunteers and senior ​participants, and we encourage everyone to get ​involved in this heartwarming initiative. For ​more information or to sign up, please email ​info@almsny.org.



TETA

(Together in Entertainment, Travel, and Activities)

Foster ​intergenerational ​connections

Alleviate loneliness ​and enhance the ​quality of life for our ​seniors

life experiences, ​develop empathy, and ​form meaningful ​relationships

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Senior Socialization

This initiative by ALMS serves as a prominent endeavor dedicated to assisting seniors, ​individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), and family caregivers within ​the New York Metro area. The program is specifically designed to address obstacles hindering ​independence and community involvement for seniors confined to their homes.

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Mulch Program

ALMS Volunteers provided support to seniors ​by helping them maintain their lawns, ​bringing joy and a sense of community to the ​elderly. In return, seniors expressed their ​gratitude with hugs and treats, strengthening ​the bonds between them.

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Senior Trips

ALMS sponsors complimentary senior outings with ​tailored activities such as beach trips and nature ​hikes. Volunteers offer support, encouraging ​connections and intergenerational discussion. These ​relationships result in enduring friendships and ​support systems, ultimately improving the quality of ​life for seniors.