At Easterseals Northeast Indiana, we believe every person deserves opportunities that match their interests, goals, and ambitions. We also believe those opportunities should not just happen between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., and not only within the walls of our buildings. That belief is driving a thoughtful reimagining of how we deliver day services for individuals with disabilities across our region.
For many years, traditional day services operated primarily during weekday hours. And while our facility‑based programming continues to play a vital role at our Fort Wayne, Angola, and Columbia City locations, we knew the people we serve wanted and needed more.
Meeting People Where Life Happens
People don’t only learn, grow, or socialize during business hours. Interests, hobbies, and community events happen in the evenings and on weekends too. To ensure our participants can fully engage in the lives they want to live, we offer robust community engagement supports outside the traditional weekday timeframe.
This means individuals can join or explore:
- Classes and events at local libraries, YMCAs, and community organizations
- Interest‑based outings tailored to what they genuinely enjoy, whether that’s art, sports, music, or something new entirely
- Volunteer opportunities that build skills and create a sense of pride, both on‑site and in the community
Expanding into evenings and weekends allows participants to experience more of the everyday activities, routines, and social connections that shape an independent, fulfilling life.
Designed for the Next Generation of Adults
We saw a growing need, especially among younger individuals graduating high school and entering the world of adult services. Today’s young adults expect opportunities that mirror the lives of their peers: experiences that feel meaningful, modern, and connected to their communities.
Our Boundless Days program emphasizes community inclusion, preparing participants for employment, higher education, and personal goals that support greater independence. By reimagining service hours and environments, we’re ensuring these meaningful experiences don’t stop after high school — they continue and grow.
A Holistic Approach to Living, Learning, and Belonging
Whether on‑site or in the community, our programming is intentionally built to help individuals develop:
- Social skills
- Life and communication skills
- Community awareness
- Lasting relationships
Participants can choose from enriching on‑site activities like dance, karate, art, gaming, and music therapy or step into the community to explore new interests, build connections, and gain confidence.
Looking Ahead
Reimagining day services is about one powerful idea: helping individuals live the lives they choose.
By blending facility‑based supports with flexible community experiences, we’re creating a model that reflects modern life and honors personal choice. We’re proud to meet people where they are, empower them to pursue what matters most, and ensure that life is filled with connection, discovery, and possibility.