Employment Services
Employment services help individuals with intellectual disabilities build job readiness and find employment in the community.
The Barber National Institute offers a variety of intellectual disability services in Erie, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh, PA. We offer these services to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through these programs, we foster greater independence, improve social interaction, and increase involvement in community life.
Employment services help individuals with intellectual disabilities build job readiness and find employment in the community.
Adult Day Services offers an assortment of intellectual disability services for adults with developmental disabilities. These home and community-based services make the most of each individual's unique strengths, leading to high-quality support.
Adult Residential Services offer a multitude of programs for residents with intellectual disabilities, including Community Homes, Supported Living, Respite Care, and Lifesharing through Family Living.
These services are designed to promote socialization and build relationships. Activities include peer dances at area colleges and summer camps for both adolescents and adults with intellectual disabilities.
The Agency With Choice program is for individuals with an intellectual disability who reside in their own home or a family home.
+ Home & Community Habilitation
+ Respite Care
+ Camps
+Companion
+ Home & Vehicle Adaptation
Our family support services are for families with children who have developmental disabilities. We have services for siblings, families, and children including arts and crafts, swimming, and more.
The best services depend on several factors, including age, living situation, goals, and level of support needed. Our team can help assess needs and recommend appropriate programs. Contact us to discuss your specific situation, and we'll guide you to the right services.
Yes! Many individuals benefit from combining services. For example, someone might participate in Supported Employment during the day, live in a Community Group Home, and attend ESO Dances for socialization. We'll work with you to create a comprehensive support plan.
We provide intellectual disabilities services to individuals of all ages and ability levels, from young children to older adults; however, most programs are intentionally and specifically designed for a particular age group or ability level. After confirming eligibility for services, we'll tailor a set of services that allows the individual to realize their best potential.
Employment Services focus specifically on job readiness, skills training, and finding competitive employment in the community. Day Services offer a range of community-based activities, skill-building opportunities, and habilitation support, which may or may not include employment components.
Habilitation services help individuals develop and maintain skills for daily living, community participation, and independence. This includes support with activities like personal care, social skills, communication, and community integration.
AWC is designed for individuals who live in their own home or with family (rather than in residential programs) and want more control over their services. Participants can access supports like respite care, home adaptations, and habilitation services while remaining in their home environment.
We offer several options depending on the level of independence and support needed:
Yes! Respite Care allows individuals and families to experience short-term residential support. This can help determine whether a longer-term residential program is appropriate.
Pre-Employment Transitional Services (for students) or Small Group Employment are great starting points for individuals new to work. These programs focus on building foundational job skills in supportive environments before transitioning to competitive employment.
Our Day Services programs like Club Erie and Community Participation Support provide meaningful daytime activities focused on community engagement, skill-building, and socialization — without the pressure of competitive employment.
While our recreation and socialization programs are definitely fun, they also serve important developmental purposes! They help build social skills, create friendships, reduce isolation, and provide opportunities to practice community integration in supportive environments.
Camp offerings vary by age:
Yes! Sib Sessions provide support specifically for children and teens who have a sibling with intellectual or developmental disabilities. These sessions help siblings connect with peers who understand their unique experiences.
Time for Me and Respite Care services are designed specifically to give caregivers peace of mind and time to recharge. These services provide safe, engaging activities for your loved one while you take time for yourself.