Local non-profit helps developmentally disabled adults
Escuela Del Rio. Photo by Saab Sahi.
The organization is currently hiring for an entry-level position
–Escuela Del Rio was originally opened on Del Rio Road in Atascadero in 1974 as part of the state schooling system, but is now a non-profit organization dedicated to helping adults with developmental disabilities with its main location at 5940 Rosario Ave. in Atascadero.
The organization is a licensed program under the Department of Developmental Services and Department of Social Services through Title 17 and 22 of the State of California.
About 90 people in total are served by the organization through four different programs: the core program, the “Toward Independence Program” (TIP), the “Specialized Teaching and Readiness Training” (START) program and the seniors program.
The core program serves people with moderate to severe developmental disabilities and focuses on a person-centered approach, which focuses on engaging their individuals in work, leisure, and learning opportunities. Efforts are made to tailor towards each person’s unique needs and offering avenues for individuals to engage in a variety of different things like gardening.
The TIP focuses on teaching self-advocacy and independent living skills to people with mild developmental disabilities.
The START program focuses on helping people with severe and extremely severe developmental disabilities gain as much independence as possible.
“They want to be involved, they want to be included in the general population,” said Debbie Argano, the Executive Director of the organization.
In the past, the organization has been a part of the Atascadero Colony Days Weekend parade via a float that the individuals at the school would build every year until the Covid-19 pandemic, which is when the school’s instructors and staff had to switch to virtual classes to safeguard the health of the individuals as the organization follows strict health guidelines due to its licensing.
Past float for the parade. Photo by Saab Sahi.
The organization has a very positive history with the City of Atascadero, as the city has often offered cleaning jobs for the organization to undertake with its individuals.
“Atascadero has embraced all of our individuals,” said Argano.
At the moment, the organization is currently hiring for a Direct Care Instructor, which is an entry-level position. They are looking for people who can lead classes, take individuals on jobs and are okay with being more hands-on.
More details on the job can be found on the Facebook job listing page.
