Athelas Institute, Inc.


Providing Opportunities for Achievement and Growth

FREQUENTLY ASKED Questions                                                                                           BACK


1.  Can I see the program?

      Yes.  Please contact Diane LaSov, Assistant Executive Director, at 410.964.1241 ext. 113 to arrange a tour.  Be prepared to discuss the nature of the individual's disability and their diagnosis, so that we can plan a tour of the program that might best meet their needs.

2.  Where are your day programs located?

      We currently have programs in Baltimore and Howard Counties.  Individuals, however, are placed in programs that will best suit their individual needs.  They are not necessarily placed according to where they live.

3.  Does Athelas provide transportation?

      Athelas provided door-to-door transportation for program participants unless they have a job that they get to using public transportation.

4.  What do I need to do to apply?

      First, make sure the individual has been approved for funding by the Developmental Disabilities Administration ( State of Maryland DDA).  If you are unsure of your status, call and we can help.  Contact Diane LaSov, Assistant Executive Director, at 410.964.1241 ext. 113, to get the application process started.  You will be asked to complete an application and provide medical, psychological and possibly other documentation.  Again, we can assist with this process.

5.  Who do you provide services for?

      Individuals who have a developmental disability and have been approved for placement and funding by DDA.

6.  Do you serve children?

      Not at this time.  Our current population ranges in age from 21 years and up.

7.  After I apply, what happens?

     If you have already toured a specific program or residence and submitted the necessary paperwork, an evaluation will be arranged.  A typical evaluation lasts for two weeks, during which time the applicant participates in the program fully and/or resides at the residence.  Transportation is provided to and from the day program during this time.  The evaluation provided the opportunity for staff to get to know the individual and for the individual to try all aspects of the program to determine if there is a "good fit."  Athelas wants to be certain the services being provided meet the needs of the individual.  If there is a good fit, after Admissions Committee approval, a budget is designed to provide services for the individual.  This budget is then submitted to DDA for approval.  Once an approval is obtained, a start date for the individual is determined.

8.  Do you have a medical day program?

      No.  However, we do have a Day Habilitation program, which serves those who may be medically fragile.  This program is managed by a Licensed Practical Nurse.