STARS’ mission, to improve the lives of individuals with developmental and cognitive disabilities, is furthered through the primary services provided to participants. Participants gain opportunities and resources to achieve their highest levels of personal, social and economic independence based upon individualized service plans.
STARS’ wide array of Vocational & Employment Services are tailored to address the distinct occupational goals and interests of our diverse participants. Each participant enters Vocational & Employment Services at the appropriate level as part of either the on-site Work Centers or a site-based training enclave at Fry’s Food Stores or Scottsdale Healthcare. They then work towards their individual goal with the STARS staff in order to progress toward vocational independence appropriate to his or her strengths.
Through STARS’ Day Programs, our skilled and supportive staff members coach participants in functional living skills such as behavior and time management, cooking, laundry, housekeeping, transportation, safety, social skills and recreation. Participants may attend regular community outings and explore photography, art and music through our award-winning creative arts program. In addition, STARS' new program for adults with autism, STEP, was created with structure of the K-12 school environment in mind, but fosters flexibility so participants gain the increased independence needed for success in the adult world. They’ll also interact with our passionate, dedicated volunteers, who offer pet therapy, dance classes and more.
The STARS Transitions Program, our newest initiative, provides teens with disabilities and their families with a helpful stepping stone between school and post-school life. Our experienced and attentive staff members assist high school seniors with case management, benefits assistance, training and advocacy up to 18 months after graduation. In addition, teens ages 15 and older may take advantage of our Young Adult Transition Training Program (YATTP). Through YATTP, teens work closely with staff members to cultivate soft skills—such as grooming, punctuality and social abilities—in order to pursue their individual employment goals.