By: Cory Cox, Director of Community Life Services
Excentia’s Community Life Services is rooted in a simple but powerful belief: with the right support, every individual can grow, thrive, and confidently pursue a life of greater independence. Our programming is designed to meet people where they are while guiding them toward where they want to be, whether that means discovering new interests, developing essential skills, or securing meaningful employment and greater independence.
At the heart of our model is our Community Participation Support (CPS) services. Our Facility CPS service provides meaningful, structured activities in a safe, secure environment. This setting allows individuals to build trust, explore personal goals, and engage in hands-on experiences that promote both confidence and capability. In these early stages, our focus is on personal growth and readiness. Participants are introduced to a wide range of skill-building opportunities, from cooking exercises in our commercial kitchen—where they learn the foundations of cooking and baking—to horticultural instruction inside our all-season greenhouse, where they cultivate plants and responsibility in equal measure. These activities introduce practical, transferable skills while also encouraging creativity, self-expression, and social interaction.
As individuals gain confidence, they begin to apply these skills beyond the facility, into the greater community as part of our Community CPS service. Supported and guided by staff, participants engage in recreational and leisure activities such as arts and humanities programs at various community sites, including museums, libraries, and local colleges. Fitness and wellness activities at local gyms and bowling alleys, or a leisurely walk in the park, are other areas of interest. Additionally, shopping and spending time with friends and acquaintances at local eateries and social gathering spots throughout the community are often preferred. These outings help individuals practice the social, communication, and life skills developed in their earlier stages of programming.
For many participants, the next step toward independence comes through volunteer opportunities. Each placement is chosen based on a person’s strengths, interests, and developing skillsets. Some individuals engage in a single volunteer role, while others take on multiple opportunities based on their comfort and readiness. Volunteer experiences provide a vital bridge to future employment, introduce work expectations, foster accountability, and allow individuals to experience the pride of contributing to their community. Over time, volunteers often transform into job seekers, demonstrating readiness for a more structured path toward employment.
To support this transition, we offer Supported Employment Services (SES), a person-centered program designed to help individuals assess career readiness, explore employment options, and secure and maintain competitive, integrated employment. Employment specialists work with each job seeker, providing coaching, guidance, and ongoing support to ensure long-term workplace success.
For individuals who may need support beyond the workplace or outside structured programming, In-Home and Community Supports (IHCS) offer the flexibility to build independence in everyday life. These services include participation in community activities and skill development within the home. Individuals receive assistance with budgeting, meal preparation, household maintenance, cleaning routines, and other essential tasks that contribute to self-sufficiency. This holistic support model ensures that each person’s growth continues across all areas of life, not just in employment or social settings.
Across all service areas, our wraparound approach includes one or more primary services and, at times, support services such as Communication and/or Behavioral Support. This wrap-around approach has led to many meaningful successes. We have supported individuals in securing long-term employment, increasing independence in the community and at home, and even navigating life milestones such as purchasing a first home. Each success story demonstrates what is possible when individuals are empowered with the tools, guidance, and encouragement they need to achieve their goals.
Through structured experiences, personalized support, and a commitment to fostering independence at every level, we help individuals build the confidence and skills they need to live fuller, more self-directed lives.