BOOST (Building on our Strengths Together)

BOOST operates under a service contract with Lucas County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities.

Purpose of the program is to create grassroots opportunities and supports for people with developmental disabilities to ensure that they live self-determined lives - assisting them to live, work, play and worship in their community.

Program activities include:

People First of Toledo - run by and for people with developmental disabilities, helps individuals with developmental disabilities develop their capacities, strengths and skills to shape their own lives and succeed as members of the community. People First provides skill-building, self-advocacy training, training on key topics, peer networking and socialization.

People First Gen2 - A mix of trainings held at 5605 Monroe Street and gatherings at local “fun” destinations. Members learn about life as an adult, the responsibilities and rights they have as adults, and increase their communication and social skills.

What Next: Life Skills Series - A life skills program for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities ages 18-25 and their families.

Ready to Work Academy - provides young adults and graduating seniors (ages 17-25) with information and tools about what they need to get a job.

Next Chapter Book Club - Participants meet weekly for one hour at local bookstores, coffee shops, and cafes to read and discuss a book of their choosing.