Program for Adaptive Care and Environment (PACE)

The PACE program was developed to meet the unique needs of individuals with Autism and behavioral issues. The program environment, activities, and social interactions are structured, but flexible to increase opportunities for learning. The program is non-vocational. PACE helps participants to focus on appropriate behaviors and positive social skills. PACE’s mission is to help persons served in this program have greater control over their lives and increase participation in a variety of life experiences. Persons must meet criteria to be a part of the program. There are a maximum of 12 clients at a time.

Services and Activities

• Based on needs and desires, PACE will offer training and assistance in daily living skills, behavioral support and coping skills, participation in community activities and development of social skills

• Persons served help set and monitor their own daily activities and performance Program participants help develop the monthly PACE activity calendar

• Sensory Room is available for persons to relax and sooth their senses through lights, nature sounds, aromatherapy and more

• PACE pets such as birds, chinchillas, guinea pigs, and hamsters help teach responsibility and caring for animals

• Activities may include:

  • Visiting the Crown Uptown

  • Going to the lake

  • Playing team sports

  • Exercise

  • Visiting museums

  • Going out to lunch

  • Arts and crafts

  • Playing games, cards and making puzzles

  • Going to the library

  • Making snacks

  • Group learning activities

  • Taking walks

  • Going shopping

  • Art class at Derby Rec Center weekly

Staff Support

• Staff must have a high school diploma, pass background checks, and complete an initial two-week orientation, including classes such as CPR, first aid, MANDT, Advanced MANDT and medication training

• Persons served have opportunities to express the qualities they prefer in the staff who work with them

• Generally, each staff member works with three people in order to focus and meet individual needs

• KETCH staff structure the chosen activities to meet the needs of the person-centered plan and behavior support plan

Health and safety

• Full-time Registered Nurse and LPN’s

• Full-time Behavioral Specialist

• Physical Therapist

• Occupational therapist for sensory evaluation

• Speech therapist

• Onsite program coordinator

• Doctor visits KETCH facilities weekly

• Routine visits by Psychiatrist

• PACE environment is secured with alarms for safety

• Fire, tornado, and other safety drills are practiced

• KETCH maintains a safety program. KETCH believes it is everyone’s responsibility to ensure the safety of others.

Transportation

• KETCH transportation will be provided to and from the PACE program

• Transportation to the various community activities and events is provided