Adult Day Services Spotlight
Erie, Pa. (June 22, 2026) Each Monday, we share stories that reflect our commitment to providing hope and opportunity to individuals and families across our communities. This post is written by Jacob Bennefield, a communications intern at Barber National Institute who is exploring how storytelling can connect people to our mission. #MissionMonday
This week I visited adult day services, otherwise known as community participation support. In this program, individuals choose how to spend their day; some work in production and assembly, others are in the community volunteering or exploring, and others enjoy socializing through group games, art, or other common interests. t
On the day of my visit, many adults were working in production and assembly. I learned that local manufacturing businesses contract work to Barber National Instittue where individuals can earn paychecks for job completion. Like all of us, earning paychecks is a sense of pride and independence. At this location, individuals put O-rings on other production parts where they have to fill a box full of finished parts to meet their quota of the day. Others organize juice, putting two white juices with four grape juices, that get put on pallets and sent to local stores. Other groups package metal parts or put together small boxes for packaging. The individuals are very proud of the work they do. They get to earn their own wages while contributing to a larger mission.
The community participation support program also provides a relaxing space where individuals can wind down by doing arts and crafts and playing games with one another. The rooms and hallways are full of decorations and crafts made by the individuals themselves. In the space, individuals have the choice to participate or not in any of the activities provided by the staff. Staff assist individuals that have limited mobility or are nonverbal so they are included. This makes the program feel more inclusive and open. Socialization is a priority in our programs, and our staff make sure that everyone has equal opportunities to be included.
The individuals get a balance between work and fun while being actively involved in a community. These programs are essential in individuals’ daily lives, where they can earn their own money, express their creative side, and build their social skills.
