Dayle Mcintosh Center For The Disabled

Core Services

As a Center for Independent Living, DMC offers seven core services geared toward supporting and enhancing the independence and self-sufficiency of those we serve. Core services include: 1. Individual and Systems Advocacy: support with obtaining needed services, understanding disability rights and laws, addressing disability discrimination, working for public policy change. 2. Assistive Technology: identifying and demonstrating tools, equipment, and devices that can help people with disabilities live independently; a computer lab with adaptive software; and recycling of donated durable medical equipment. 3. Independent Living Skills Training: group and individual training on daily living skills topics such as communication, budgeting, and cooking using adaptive techniques. 4. Information and referral: information on the wide variety of programs and resources available to people with disabilities in Orange County, and assistance with getting connected. 5. Peer Counseling: guidance, support, and mentoring by staff and other consumers who share their experiences living with a disability and becoming independent. 6. Personal Assistant Services: support with recruiting and interviewing care attendants helping meet individual needs of personal care and housekeeping. 7a. Community Transition Services: assistance and support for individuals who are living in skilled nursing facilities who wish to return to independent living in their own home or elsewhere in the community. 7b. Transition Services for Youth: helping young people prepare for adult-life through group activities lead by role models with disabilities.

Other Services

DMC offers a number of additional programs and services in response to community needs. These include: 1. Aging and Disability Resource Connection: assistance for older adults and people with disabilities to plan long-term care, learn about available resources, and access the supports they need to live independently. 2. Aging with Vision Loss: in-home training and services provided for individuals 55+ who have lost some or all of their sight. The program serves both Orange and Los Angeles Counties. 3. Housing Assistance: information on affordable and or accessible housing options and emergency shelters, support in learning tenant rights and responsibilities, and guidance on home modifications for accessibility. (DMC does not own or operate any housing units nor does the organization have funding for emergency shelter). 4. Independent Living Skills for the Deaf: daily living and self-advocacy skills in American Sign Language, by and for the D/deaf. 5. Community Services: outreach and disability-awareness education, accessibility training, advocacy for systemic change, and other efforts to empower and support the disability community in Orange County.