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Bowling In Wheelchair

Community-Based Supports

Building Skills, Independence, and Meaningful Community Connection

Community-Based Supports are hands-on services provided by trained Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to help individuals with disabilities build skills, increase independence, and participate fully in their communities.
At Onboard Outreach, Community-Based Supports are centered on the individual—supporting real-life goals through consistent, respectful, and person-centered assistance.

What Are Community-Based Supports?

Community-Based Supports are designed to help individuals develop, maintain, and strengthen the skills needed to live, work, and engage in everyday life.
 

These services take place in the community, not in an office or facility, and are tailored to each person’s needs, abilities, and goals.
 

Supports may focus on:

  • Daily living skills

  • Social and communication skills

  • Community participation

  • Independence and self-direction

  • Building confidence and routine

The Role of Our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)

Our Community-Based Supports are delivered by trained Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who work one-on-one or in small settings to provide practical, respectful support.
 

DSPs may assist individuals by:

  • Supporting daily routines and life skills

  • Encouraging independence while providing appropriate supervision

  • Assisting with community activities and social engagement

  • Supporting skill development through real-world practice

  • Helping individuals navigate everyday challenges safely

 

Our DSPs are selected and trained with an emphasis on:

  • Dignity and respect

  • Person-centered support

  • Clear communication

  • Safety and consistency

  • Building trust over time

Services Offered Through Community-Based Supports

Community-Based Supports may include assistance with:

 

Daily Living & Independence

  • Personal routines and time management

  • Household and community tasks

  • Money awareness and budgeting skills

  • Health and wellness routines

 

Community Inclusion & Social Engagement

  • Participating in community activities and events

  • Building and maintaining relationships

  • Developing communication and social skills

  • Exploring interests and hobbies

 

Skill Building & Personal Development

  • Strengthening problem-solving skills

  • Increasing self-advocacy and decision-making

  • Practicing independence in real-world settings

  • Supporting transitions and new experiences

 

Employment & Vocational Support

  • Support with employment readiness activities

  • Transportation to and from vocational or employment settings (when authorized)

  • Building routines related to work or training programs

Person-Centered and Goal-Driven

Community-Based Supports are guided by:

  • The individual’s service plan

  • Personal goals and preferences

  • Approved services and authorizations

 

Supports are not one-size-fits-all. DSPs work collaboratively with individuals, families, and Support Coordination Agencies to ensure services align with goals and evolve as needs change.

How Community-Based Supports Fit With Other Services

Community-Based Supports are distinct from Supports Brokerage and Transportation services, though they may work together as part of a broader support system.

  • Supports Brokerage focuses on planning, coordination, and informed choice

  • Community-Based Supports focus on hands-on, day-to-day assistance and skill building

  • Transportation services, when authorized, are provided separately and based on evaluation

 

Each service plays a different role, ensuring clarity, compliance, and meaningful outcomes.

Who May Benefit From Community-Based Supports

Community-Based Supports may be helpful for individuals who:

  • Want to build or strengthen independent living skills

  • Benefit from structured, hands-on support

  • Are working toward greater community involvement

  • Need assistance navigating daily routines

  • Are developing vocational or employment-related skills

Our Commitment

At Onboard Outreach, Community-Based Supports are delivered with a commitment to:

  • Respect – honoring individuality and choice

  • Consistency – building trust through reliable support

  • Safety – maintaining supportive and secure environments

  • Empowerment – encouraging growth, independence, and confidence

Getting Started With Community-Based Supports

If you’re interested in Community-Based Supports or would like to explore whether this service may be a good fit, we welcome you to reach out.

Onboard Outreach, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving individuals and families across New Jersey.

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