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WHAT WE DO(differently)We're on a mission. Now more than ever, teens and young adults are struggling to transition into adulthood. The rate at which young adults reach markers of adulthood has slowed dramatically in the past decade. Delays in establishing financial stability, close relationships and school or work achievements can leave many feeling lost and overwhelmed. For individuals with social and emotional disorders, the challenge of forging a path toward independence and happiness is even more daunting. Without confidence, experience and support many young adults find themselves shut out of social, educational and employment opportunities and struggle to finding meaning and purpose in their lives.At Great Connection, we provide structure and guidance to help individuals adjust to the challenges of adulthood. Through specialized instruction and communal opportunities we assist individuals in living fuller and happier lives - connecting them to people, ideas and opportunities.We respect everyone's individuality. We foster organic peer relationships and support age-appropriate activities. Always promoting skills, our instruction is based on the neurological and cognitive underpinnings of social and emotional development. We motivate our clientele through instruction and activities that encourage interpersonal relationships, emotional well-being, independent thought and personal achievements.In 2018, happiness among young adults fell to record lows.Who's struggling?
- Only 40% of young adults describe themselves as 'very satisfied' with their lives
- 1 in 5 young adults struggle with a mental health issue
- 58% of Gen Z'ers report experiencing significant symptoms of depression
- 8.2 million young adults ages 20 to 24 are either out of work or underemployed
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OUR TEAMLorraine MillanCEOLorraine holds a Masters Degree in Applied Psychology from NYU, and was the Director of Catholic Charities' Center for Social & Emotional Enhancement at Mount Loretto for 8 years. She specializes in social skills training, behavior management, professional development, program development and parent advocacy and support.
As a professional for over twenty five years, Lorraine understands the limited supports available to individuals with social and emotional challenges and their families as they grow older. Lorraine is redefining teen and adult services by creating opportunities for growth and development through specialized and stimulating supports and training. Lorraine is committed to providing an enriching, integrated, modern and comfortable environment where young adults are inspired to broaden interests, improve capacities and connect to others. -
Programs and ServicesPurposeful Instruction, for Meaningful LivesThe Arts and Exploration Center
Come join us at our multipurpose center designed to expand opportunities, broaden interests and improve capacities for individuals who desire greater fulfillment and independence in their lives. Our mission is to connect teens and adults, with all levels of ability, to meaningful relationships, activities, and instruction. We are committed to providing a dynamic, uniquely comfortable and enriching atmosphere that promotes social, vocational and personal growth.Adult ClassesFlexible programming centered around individuals interests and abilities$90 per 2hr classEnrichment ProgramsWe develop and grow through exploration. Learning is a life-long endeavor. We can't adjust to any new situation, job or relationship unless we are open to gaining new information and are competent in applying it. These classes are designed to broaden interests, expand knowledge and encourage exploration and participation.Necessary Knowledge
Without basic knowledge we cannot understand a newscast, fully participate in conversations or relate to others' concerns. This class is designed to help individuals become more knowledgable about themselves and the world around them. Some of the areas we explore include pop culture, history, the human condition and public concerns.CivicsThis class is designed to broaden an understanding of the roles of the institutions of government, how policies are developed and implemented, our legal system, the rights and responsibilities of citizens and important historical events that have shaped our country.Expanding Interests
It's not easy to compete with screens. So many young adults today have reduced their recreation to the phone, computer and TV. Failing to explore hobbies and pastimes as children has led to limited interests and experiences. Yet hobbies inform our preferences, introduce us to challenge, inspire creativity and develop organizational skills and goal-setting. In this class we introduce and explore various activities and areas of interest.
Expression Through Art
Art allows a unique opportunity to express ourselves- who we are, how we feel, what we value. In this class we explore different mediums, with an emphasis on expression over skill. Creative endeavors open the mind to planned possibilities and are a great way to promote innovative thought.
Life Skills
Transitioning into adulthood requires a long set of skills. Balancing personal priorities with obligations is particularly challenging for young adults. Developing practical skills along with emotional resilience is necessary for success. These classes are designed to prepare young adults for the realities of living independently.
Positive Psychology
Researchers have found strong links between health, longevity and happiness. Engaging in novel activities, challenging work, ongoing learning, cooperative activities and the development of strong social bonds lead to much greater levels of satisfaction than money, success and status. In this class we concentrate on developing attitudes and habits that and lead to greater personal fulfillment.
Practical Living
This class teaches the practical skills necessary to live independently. Training includes computer skills, self-care, cleaning, hosting, house/apartment maintenance, banking and money management.
Healthy Living
This class was designed to promote and assist in developing a healthy lifestyle. Understanding your body and initiating healthy habits at a young age is key. We explore fresh food preparation, nutrition, diet, exercise, relaxation and physical and sexual health.
Stoicism in PracticeBased on the ancient philosophy, modern stoicism is an 'approach to life' that emphasizes rational responses to life's challenges and the pursuit of fulfillment. This class teaches intentional living and contemplative skills, explores personal values and self-awareness, and encourages ethical behavior and personal responsibility.Social Skills
Supporting and teaching social information processing is the foundation of our instruction. Sessions are designed to comprehensibly guide the individual through social interactions, with an emphasis on targeting the way they attend to, consider and respond to external information. We teach, practice and support adaptive skills, so that individuals can learn to get their needs met in a socially acceptable manner.Skills practiced and developed include:
valuing and developing relationships
cooperating
adapting to change/ improving flexibility
communicating needs and perspectives effectively
managing commitments
resolving conflict
considering and understanding others' perspectivesunderstanding societal expectationsInterpersonal Skills
Good social skills are critical to functioning in all areas of life. The ability to make thoughtful decisions, persevere, control impulses, communicate clearly and relate to others is essential for making friends, being successful at work and being productive in life. Instruction is designed to improve etiquette, communication, self-awareness and self-control.Conversational SkillsFor many, the art of conversation is challenging. It is the core vehicle of self-disclosure and information sharing. Without it, it is nearly impossible to develop meaningful relationships, learn from the people around you and influence others. In this class, we practice the skills of attending, sharing, emotional regulation and appreciating others.Game SkillsGames provide an engaging and challenging format to learn how to socialize, manage emotions and share with others. Games require focus, attention, patience, problem-solving and, sometimes, even collaboration. This class uses games to practice and strengthen social skills.
Vocational Supports
Getting a job and keeping a job is particularly challenging in this day and age. We provide flexible and person-centered instruction that focuses on interests, strengths and the skills required to maintain employment.
Prevocational Training
This program is designed to practice and develop the prerequisites skills necessary for obtaining and keeping a job. The specific components of each individual's program will vary with interests, strengths and needs. Skills training may focus on:exploring strengths and areas of interest
following multiple-step directives
developing acceptable work routines
initiating tasks
completing tasks
communicating needs effectively
accepting and following instruction
managing frustration
working cooperatively with others
managing time constraintsVocational Training
This program has been designed for individuals that have displayed a level of mastery in prerequisite work skills. Individuals are given greater responsibility and autonomy. Instruction focuses on specific work tasks and skills related to their area of interest. Each individual's program will vary with interests, strengths and needs. Training may focus on:understanding workplace etiquette
accepting and learning from constructive criticism
demonstrating dependability
considering personal appearance
independently problem-solving
developing confidence
persisting on challenging task
understanding health and safety issues
considering quality of work
balancing on-task and off-task behaviorTeen and Adult ServicesLets get socialAfternoon and Evening ProgramsThe Art of Hanging Out (Teens and Adults)
This class gives individuals the opportunity to develop and practice friendship and social skills in a vibrant social setting. The program is designed to promote healthy peer interaction and to expose participants to age-appropriate activities. Trained staff coach and support prosocial skills during dynamic, mature social activities. The goal of the program is to aid teens and adults in adapting to various social environments and ultimately to build sustained healthy peer relationships. Classes are grouped according to age and maturity.$20 per Hr
Personal Growth Classes (14-adult)
Life-development courses are now available for teens and adults. Based on the latest research, these groups engage in classroom instruction that explore adult themes, expand awareness, teach practical strategies and promote personal development. Classes are grouped and divided according to age.$50 per 2 Hr Class
Adult Life 101
This class explores the basics. From budgeting, to filling out a job application, to answering the phone politely, we'll review all the skills that lead to greater independence.The Art of Conversation
This class provides a loosely structured format that supports individuals in their efforts to communicate and make friends.Ready, Set, Goals
Designed to be fun and thought provoking, this class assists in exploring values, developing priorities, setting realistic goals and developing plans of action.The Friendly Competition
This class offers a safe opportunity to learn and practice interpersonal and cooperative skills through competitive activities, so that everyone can be better prepared for the game of life.Romantic Relationships
One of the most important aspects in our lives is learning how to have mutual, caring romantic relationships. A sensitive topic and subject matter rarely discussed, we will explore all aspects of romantic relationships.
For Argument's Sake
This class explores and practices the necessary components for resolving conflicts. Flexibility, emotional regulation and cooperative skills will all be practiced.Exploring Relationships Through Film
In this class, we will use film to investigate the social world. In an effort to expand awareness, critical attention will be paid to the underlying motivations of characters, the conflicts they experience and the consequences of their behavior.College Life 101
This class provides an overview of some of the differences between high school and college and prepares students for likely challenges. Managing workloads, deciding on courses, understanding standard procedures, exploring social opportunities and finding supports will all be reviewed.Intro to Decision-making
Decision making skills are critically important and allow us to make choices that impact our lives and also the lives of others. In this class we explore the skills and considerations that are necessary for responsible decision making. We review and practice the process of critical analysis, information gathering, implicit bias, barriers to taking action, and effective collaboration with others.
Parent TrainingEffective supports take more than good intentions and common senseMonthly ClassesTrainings$50 per HrMonthly training seminars are now available for parents. These classes are designed to help family members understand and support their child through their teens and early adulthood. Classes may include:
- realistic goal setting
- helping your child initiate and sustain friendships
- understanding and recognizing psychiatric disorders
- supporting resilience in the face of challenges
- recognizing and supporting typical developmental milestones
- the art and science of dealing with people for you and your child
- the role of romantic relationships in adulthood
- workplace culture and expectations
TravelSee the world, expand your mindDomestic and International TripsPlease InquireThere's so much to gain from exploring different places and cultures. At Great Connections we're proud and excited to offer small group travel opportunities to young adults. Breaking out of our daily routines and familiar settings develops new neural connections and triggers curiosity and skill development. Travel enhances tolerance for uncertainty, boosts confidence, develops planning and cooperative skills and solidifies social bonds. Of course, it's fun too! Join us to create memories that will last a lifetime. -
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