The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) has identified that many of the individuals served are new to the DDS service, and can benefit from working with someone they can identify with and are more familiar with their social and environmental atmosphere.
Based on COMPASS’ history of developing relationships with individuals, it is our goal to help our clients build skills through education, repetition, and enrichment so they can participate fully and meaningfully in, and contribute to, their communities as valued members.
COMPASS provides mentorship, teaches life skills, and connects clients to resources in their community. COMPASS began work with DDS in 2013 when transitioning an individual that aged out of DCF and refused to accept service from DDS unless he continued work with the COMPASS worker.
Geographic areas served
We are currently working with three DDS area offices; The Greater Boston office (Metro), South Coastal (Braintree), and Worcester.
Languages
English, Spanish, and Creole.
Expected frequency of contact with families
COMPASS Individual support & Family Navigation is a service that is responsive to the Individual’s and Families evolving needs. As such, we will see the Individual and their Families, as often as is requested and/or needed (minimum 3x per week), when and where it is most convenient and constructive for the individual.
The Developmental Services (DDS) program:
- Provides home and community-based mentorship to young adults (ages 22+) with developmental disabilities who have been referred by the Department of Developmental Services (DDS).
- Connects individuals to long-term community resources with various collateral agencies, assist with furthering their education, and assist with obtaining employment and housing
- Provides individuals with the skills and training to maintain a future of independence
- Assists clients in accessing resources in their community and empowered to use the existing resources to their fullest potential
- Leverages COMPASS’ considerable court experience in addressing criminal offenses of individuals with developmental disabilities, maintains communication with appropriate personnel, and accompanies individuals to court appearances
- Assists clients in developing better parenting techniques, including: communication skills, safety planning, behavior modification plans, problem-solving, and time and stress management
Developmental Services Contacts
Louise Pacheco
Director of Community Services
Email Louise
(781) 424-1878
Darrell Williams
DDS Program Director
Email Darrell
(617) 233-1544
Lawrence Office: 370 Merrimack St., Building #5, Lawrence, MA 01843
Worcester Office: 35 Harvard St. Worcester, MA 01609