Horizons

Horizons began in 1979 as a summer camp in Eastern Connecticut for young people with developmental disabilities and other special needs. It has been growing ever since, moving to its present location in 1985 and expanding to offer year-round services. Horizons Supported Living enables individuals to live the life they want to live in apartments, group homes, condos or single-family homes in area towns, with individualized supports. Horizons Educational Support Services affords students in their local public schools with opportunities to maximize their transition plan to adult life and realize their dreams for the future. Horizons Supported Employment and Options assists people in finding community-based jobs that match their talents and interests. Options also delivers tailor-made opportunities for adults who are growing older and for adults who have physical or multiple disabilities. Horizons Summer Camp is offered for eight weeks each summer. Engaging, well trained instructors inspire campers to try and learn in new and different ways during horseback riding, swimming, boating, art, fitness, drama, pioneering, music, camp crafts, P.E., language arts, movement and dance. Horizons “Weekends in the Country” run from September to May. Action-packed weekends are filled with fun and friendship. Horizons provides critical respite services to children and their families via “Weekends in the Country." The structure that supports these programs is a network of high quality, passionate, well-trained staff many of whom began their career with us as young summer camp counselors. Via our international connections and partnerships with local universities, in particular the University of Connecticut and Eastern Connecticut State University, we recruit and retain high quality individuals who are key to building and sustaining the energy and excellence that people have come to expect of Horizons. GUIDING PRINCIPLES We see the whole person with a focus on competence and capacity. We specialize in finding the unexpected in people. We create options based on each person's unique needs and preferences. We promote independence and success. We find solutions. We solve problems and overcome barriers. We respond to the changing needs of individuals, families, and our community. We build outcome-based teams, foster collaboration, cultivate professionals and celebrate accomplishments. We maintain supportive environments and renew them to exceed licensing requirements and state regulations. We maximize resources, embrace the challenges of creative fundraising, and exercise stewardship focused on a positive future.