Encore Program - Classes & Activities
Encore Program (as opposed to Encore Programs, Inc of which it is a part) is an arts-based day program for adults, 18 years of age and older, with intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities. Decades of evidence demonstrate that the creative arts are especially suited for instruction and learning and can help pave the way for full community inclusion. The Encore staff includes degreed/credentialed instructors who work with clients through music, visual and fine arts, language arts, wellness and active classes, technology and industrial arts. Encore concentrates upon the personal development of each participant in support of his or her goals of self-reliance and independence. Participants are supported in self-care, social and leadership skills, personal responsibility, and vocational readiness.
Click for further information about Adults with Developmental Disabilities
Encore Group Activities
Art Therapy – In Art Therapy groups participants discover endless opportunities for creativity through a variety of art media. Whatever physical limitations they have are mitigated by adaptive equipment and alternative techniques. Their goals often include increased coordination, attention span, socialization and self confidence that can be transferred to possible work environments. Working and learning through the arts enables participants to the ability to discriminate personal preferences in art.
Music Therapy – In Music Therapy groups participants are provided opportunities to experience a wide variety of melodic and percussive instruments for self expression and cooperative group experiences. Consequently, when they listen to various musical styles they begin to identify elements including improvisation, and identify styles that allow them to confidently express themselves through song. Hence, goals that are commonly sought include improved motor and vocal skills, impulse control, self esteem, and an appreciation for others in their own exploration of music.
Independent Living Skills & Community Inclusion – The focus of these groups is to foster the development of previously learned living skills necessary for community inclusion. Participants goals include learning to determine appropriate appearance and behaviors when interacting others. Participants learn to rehearse skills in front of mirrors, using role-playing games, and practice ordinary verbal greetings and social customs like respecting personal space, listening skills, etc.
Group Therapy – Practiced in both Encore & CAVA programs, and supervised by one of our therapists, Kayley Clenney, this group functions to help participants to identify appropriate personal thoughts and feels. Peer support and respect for others is emphasized. Participants are reinforced as important members of the community learn to regard others in the same way. Using role playing techniques, they learn to distinguish within themselves and others facial expressions and body language consistent with those feelings. Further, participants have opportunities to express feelings nonverbally through art, music, drama, and movement.
