Supported Living Services (SLS), under Adult Services, consists of a broad range of services to adults with developmental disabilities who, through the Individual Program Plan (IPP) process, choose to live in homes they themselves own or lease in the community. SLS may include assistance with selecting and moving into a home; choosing personal attendants and housemates; acquiring household furnishings; common daily living activities and emergencies; becoming a participating member in community life; managing personal financial affairs, as well as other supports.

These services help individuals exercise meaningful choice and control in their daily lives, including where and with whom to live. SLS is designed to foster individuals' nurturing relationships, full membership in the community, and work toward their long-range personal goals. Because these may be life-long concerns, Supported Living Services are offered for as long and as often as needed, with the flexibility required to meet a persons' changing needs over time, and without regard solely to the level of disability. Typically, a supported living service agency works with the individual to establish and maintain a safe, stable, and independent life in his or her own home. But it is also possible for some individuals to supervise their services themselves, to secure the maximum possible level of personal independence.

Staff

Meghan Van Heerden
SLS Supervisor
mvanheerden@autism-vac.org
SLS Phone (661) 831-6482

Meghan Van Heerden has worked for Valley Adult Services since December of 2006. She has a B.A in Diversified Liberal Arts from Simpson University. She has specialized training in ABA. She currently participates in the Supported Living Task force through Kern Regional Center and sits on 3 committees assisting to develop best practices for Supported Living Services. She is very committed to each of her adult clients and wants to see each client live a full independent life.