The Occupational Training Center of Burlington County (OTC) hopes to raise awareness about the services available for individuals with developmental disabilities.
The OTC, a private non-profit corporation, operates four Community Access Centers located in Southampton Township, Marlton, Mt. Laurel, and Burlington Township.
The centers serve adults 21 years and older with developmental and intellectual disabilities as well as behavior disorders.
Individuals in the Community Access Centers have access to services that include day habilitation, community inclusion, prevocational training and special needs assistance.
Day habilitation focuses on skill development through activities like cooking, computer time and community involvement opportunities such as baking and bringing dog biscuits to local animal shelters.
Each center also has a specific special needs program for adults with complex medical and behavioral issues.
Skilled nurses and occupational therapists are on staff to assist clients with range of motion exercises, cognitive awareness practices, muscular stimulation and more.
A special sensory room is available at each center, which is outfitted with a variety of lights and objects that offer opportunities for stimulation or calm based on the needs of the individuals.
In order to foster a sense of pride and accomplishment among individuals, the Community Access Centers emphasize community inclusion.
This involves arranged volunteer opportunities with local nonprofits, visits to local libraries, and other public outings. Prevocational training is also offered to help individuals with non-job-specific strengths and skills. These include training in communication, following directions, task completion, and workplace conflict resolution.
While individuals in the Community Access Centers have developmental disabilities, officials say it doesn’t mean they have an inability to grow, learn and contribute.
The Occupational Training Center provides individualized programs and opportunities lead by trained and compassionate staff members.
To learn more about the OTC and its four Community Access Centers, visit www.otcbc.org.
