A closer look: Travel Training

Ontario ARC offers a wide variety of programs and services -- all with the same goal of helping people with developmental disabilities live an independent lifestyle while creating opportunities for personal growth.    Here's a closer look at the agency's brand new Travel Training service...

Ontario ARC's Travel Training is a short term, yet intensive, instructional service offered to individuals with developmental disabilities who are interested in using public transportation and traveling independently.  It empowers participants to travel safely while increasing their self confidence.  This service is multi-faceted and offers supports in the following areas:

• Time management -- "What time should I get to the bus stop if I have to catch the 1 p.m. CATS?"
• Planning routes -- "If I need to get to Eastview Mall from Geneva, how many times do I need to transfer buses?"
• Proper transportation etiquette -- "Is it OK to take up two seats or listen to my headphone loudly on the bus?"
• Emergency situations -- "What should I do if the bus I'm on gets into an accident?"
• Pedestrian safety -- "What's the best way to cross a busy street?"
• Problem solving -- "What should I do if I miss my bus?"

Travel Training also includes support in personal safety, reducing anxieties about traveling, reading bus schedules, and "stranger danger."  In addition, this services offers participants the opportunity to enhance basic math skills, learn how to purchase a reduced fare pass, and money management concepts.

Interested in learning more?  John Hurlburt -- the agency's travel trainer -- can provide you with more information about this exciting, new service.  If you are interested in signing up, please speak to your service coordinator or call JoEllen Meath -- the agency's central intake coordinator -- at 585-919-2118.