Services
Since beginning as a single house in 1969, Stepping Stones has continued
to recognize the importance of safe, affordable housing to the ongoing
recovery of persons with severe mental illnesses. Through the years, Stepping
Stones has developed a continuum of care which combines case management,
counseling, phychosocial rehabilitation and housing to meet the individualized
needs of the adults served.
Primary services are listed below.
Fully Supervised Group Homes (owns and operates 4 group homes in Rockford)
In response to community needs, Stepping Stones has grown from offering
one group home to currently operating four such homes. These group
homes operate on a 24 hours a day basis and provide the amount of support
and structure many residents need to begin their recovery. These homes
are situated in average residential neighborhoods and accommodate 6-8
residents each. Residents of group homes are given the opportunity to
build the life skills they will need to live in more independent settings.
24 hour a day Supported Housing Programs (owns and operates two (2)
fully supervised 15-unit apartment complexes)
In 1993 Stepping Stones opened two fifteen-unit apartment buildings (the
first construction of new housing dedicated to serving individuals with
mental illness in Rockford) which provided housing opportunities for residents
who were able to master the basic living skills taught in the group homes.
Residents were able to choose an environment where they would be more
independent while still having access to staff on a daily basis or as
needed. These apartments are a step closer to increased independence.
Apartment Living (operates four (4) apartment buildings)
Stepping Stones provides supervised apartments to residents who demonstrated
progress sufficient for more independent living. While residents live
more independently, case managers continue to provide necessary services
and maintain periodic visits to ensure progress that was achieved is maintained.
River North (a 40 bed apartment program)
This facility is a collaborative effort between Stepping Stones and Rockford
Housing Authority and features supervised apartment living designed for
seniors with mental illnesses. This facility is designed to provide the
proper amount of supervision and support to assist residents in maintaining
community living. River North allows residents to avoid or greatly delay
hospitalization and institutional living while taking full advantage of
their community.
Case Management Services
While each person living in Stepping Stones owned and operated facility
has a case manager, case management services are provided for those who
have developed more independent living skills and reside at one of the
Rockford Housing Authority apartments or on their own in the community.
This program is designed to help individuals build on their previous progress
while progressing even further in the area of independent living.
Psychosocial Rehabilitation
Traditional "Day Treatment" services have been replaced with
structured Psychosocial Rehabilitation Services. This includes job training
programs, formal classes and involvement in consumer forums
and related training. These services are provided at the corporate facility-the
Mildred Kral Rehabilitation Center located at 706 N. Main Street in Rockford.
Community Education and Advocacy
Stepping Stones recognizes that stigma against mental illness and persons
with these illnesses still exists and therefore we perform a role of educator
and advocate in our community. This objective is obtained through public
appearances, involvement in appropriate organizations and committees,
media contacts, and presentations to professional, educational and community
organizations.
|
