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Community Engagement Services

Our Community Engagement (CE) program is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves the chance to experience joy, connection, and personal growth through meaningful participation in their community. This program was thoughtfully developed to nurture confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging by providing rich and varied experiences tailored to each person’s strengths, needs, and goals. We approach each day with compassion, creativity, and respect for the individual, offering opportunities that reflect a life of dignity and purpose.

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Community Engagement services are guided by the values and standards set forth by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) and outlined in the Code of Virginia, 12VAC30-122-400. As part of Virginia’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers, CE is designed to support inclusion, relationship-building, and skill development in everyday settings. All services must take place in integrated environments, promoting full and equal access to the broader community.

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Staff-to-Individual Ratio:
Sunny Haven provides Community Engagement services at a ratio of 1 staff to 3 individuals. This structure allows for personalized attention while still encouraging peer interaction and group participation.

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A Typical Day:
A day in our CE program often begins with staff picking up individuals from their homes around 9:00 AM. From there, participants may head to a variety of planned outings such as visiting a local park, participating in events at community centers, attending a public library event, going bowling, enjoying lunch at a restaurant, or volunteering in the community. Outings are selected based on individual preferences and support needs, and they are adjusted for weather, accessibility, and scheduling.

Transportation to and from the outing is typically provided by Sunny Haven staff, who ensure that each individual is transported safely and comfortably. Services usually conclude by 3:00 PM, when participants are returned home. However, customized schedules can be accommodated as needed, and weekend hours are also available upon request.

 

Skill Building:
Our approach to skill development is gentle, intentional, and empowering. Through real-life experiences, individuals practice communication, budgeting, transportation, problem-solving, and more—skills that translate into greater independence and confidence. Whether someone is learning to ask for help at a store, count change, or navigate a bus route, our staff are there with encouragement and patience. We honor the pace and learning style of each person, ensuring a safe and supportive space where growth can truly flourish. Our staff follow each individual’s Person Centered Plan, which is created from the Individual Support Plan (ISP), to ensure that the support provided aligns with the individual's personal goals, preferences, and identified outcomes.

 

Recreational Opportunities:
Recreation is an essential part of a well-rounded life. We offer diverse, accessible outings that bring enjoyment and promote wellness—like strolls through a local park, expressive art sessions, visits to the farmers market, or group fitness classes. These moments offer more than just fun—they create joy, build friendships, relieve stress, and strengthen identity. Activities are always chosen with the individual’s preferences and needs in mind.

 

Community Participation:
True belonging happens through shared experiences. We support individuals in becoming active participants in community life—whether attending a local concert, volunteering at a shelter, joining a library program, or shopping for weekly groceries. Our staff gently guide and advocate when needed, but always with the goal of promoting autonomy and relationship-building. Every step into the community is an opportunity to build natural supports and genuine inclusion.

 

Want to Learn More?

We understand that choosing Community Engagement can bring up many questions. Some families may feel uncertain about what this service truly looks like day-to-day, or whether it will meet their loved one’s needs. That’s why we invite families and support teams to reach out to us. A phone call or in-person meeting with our Community Engagement Manager, Evelyn Kipp, can help answer your questions, ease concerns, and offer a clearer picture of what to expect. We’re here to listen, support, and partner with you in planning a meaningful experience.📧 ekquus@gmail.com; 📞 443-243-9113

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Ready to Refer?
If you’re ready to take the next step and refer an individual for Community Engagement Services, please complete our referral form here: Community Engagement Referral Form

 

Eligibility Criteria:
To participate in Community Engagement Services, individuals must meet the following requirements:

  • Age: Must be 18 years of age or older

  • Diagnosis: Must have a documented intellectual or developmental disability, in accordance with DBHDS guidelines

  • Assessment: Must complete a comprehensive assessment to evaluate cognitive, social, physical, and emotional support needs

  • Individualized Service Plan (ISP): Must have a current ISP that outlines CE-related goals, developed in collaboration with the individual and their support team

  • Funding: Must have appropriate funding in place through an approved Medicaid waiver, private pay, or another valid funding source

  • Participation: Must express a willingness and demonstrated ability to participate in community-based activities, engage in skill-building efforts, and attend CE outings with support

 

If Services Need to End:
We understand that sometimes circumstances change, and Community Engagement services may need to be discontinued. If that happens, we will work closely with the individual, their family or representative, and the support team to ensure a thoughtful and respectful transition. Our goal is to support a smooth handoff to the next appropriate service or support, and to provide documentation and recommendations as needed. Whenever possible, we ask for advance notice so that the individual’s experience remains person-centered and supportive through the final day of service.

 

Additional Resources:
For more information about Community Engagement services and state requirements, please refer to the following official resources:

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