Programs and Services

The following programs and services enable the individuals we serve to work and live in the community as independently as possible.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES: Individuals who choose to live in their own homes in the Cumberland community or who continue to live in their families' homes sometimes require encouraging support. Consumers can receive assistance with grocery shopping, paying bills, mastering public transportation, enjoying recreation and leisure activities, doctor appointments, locating housing, and obtaining funding for environmental modifications to accommodate handicapping conditions.

FRIENDS AWARE INDUSTRIES: FAI Industries specializes in subcontract work while providing sheltered, paid employment to clients. We proudly serve more than 75 businesses in the tri-state area by providing the following innovative services:

• Bulk mailing preparation from start to finish, including pick-up and delivery, to all types of businesses.
• On-site temporary labor forces.
• Prime manufacturing of survey stakes and a complete line of geotextile products.
• Production of handmade crafts such as durable doormats, loomed rugs and woodcrafts.
• Cultivation of flowering plants and culinary herbs. If you are interested in saving your business time and money, phone 301-722-7268 ext. 212 for more details.

RESIDENTIAL SERVICES: Our Residential Services provides a safe, comfortable and attractive living environment for Consumers. We offer Group Homes that accommodate four to six people and Alternative Living Units that provide for two to three Consumers. Eight unique homes are located throughout Allegany County.

SENIOR CENTER: The Seniors Program is open to individuals 60 plus years old as well as to people with medical conditions that warrant a more leisure-oriented day. Center activities include community outings, educational and fitness programs, social and recreational activities, as well as integrated activities with other senior centers within the community. Transportation is provided. Please call our Program Director at 301-722-7268 ext. 215 if you would like to volunteer your time to teach, demonstrate or entertain our seniors.

SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM: Our unique Supported Employment Program places individuals in productive, entry-level jobs in and around Allegany County where they are paid employees. We pride ourselves in having specialized job coaches. These trained support staff are provided at no cost to participating businesses for as long as needed. We strongly encourage you to take advantage of this virtually untapped resource. Please phone 301-722-7268 ext. 219

TRAINING CENTER: The Training Center emphasizes daily living and pre-vocational skills. Each individual's training needs are assessed and personalized plans are developed based on each person's strengths, abilities and preferences. The program operates Monday -Friday from 9a.m. to 3p.m. A nutritious lunch is provided daily. Also, door to door transportation services are provided.

TRANSPORTATION: Transportation Services operates over 20 vehicles, 5 days a week, providing door to door transportation for all those receiving supports in programs at Friends Aware Inc. Our specially equipped vans and buses are maintained to meet various physical needs. In addition to trained drivers, aides also accompany all vehicles to ensure the safety and well-being of the passengers.

For more information about services offered to individuals contact the Developmental Disabilities Administration of Maryland.

  Artwork reprinted by permission of Martha Perske   from PERSKE: PENCIL PORTRAITS 1971-1990   (NASHVILLE: ABINGDON PRESS, 1998).