Frequently Asked Questions

What does OPTIONS do?

• OPTIONS was the first agency in this area to provide community homes and supported living services for people with disabilities.

• At any one time, about 200 individuals and their families are benefiting from OPTIONS. Hundreds more have also benefited from OPTIONS.

• OPTIONS has an excellent reputation for continually providing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

• Around thirty clients of OPTIONS are employed by local businesses such as First Guaranty Bank, Wal-Mart, Tangipahoa Parish School System, and Liquid Container.  Others are employed by OPTIONS to do contract work such as lawn maintenance and janitorial work, as well as assembly work at OPTIONS workshop.

• Currently twenty-four individuals live in community homes supported by OPTIONS and thirty individuals in supported living have their own homes or apartments.

What disabilities does OPTIONS specialize in?

OPTIONS provides services to people with mental retardation, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, Down syndrome, blindness, hearing impairment, physical limitations and other developmental disabilities.

Why is OPTIONS necessary?

OPTIONS quality services must continue so OPTIONS can continue to help individuals with disabilities contribute to the community in the fullest possible way. OPTIONS has a wonderful track record of providing high quality services responsive to the needs of people with disabilities. It is essential for OPTIONS to ensure the future of these services. It is very difficult to tell someone with a disability who wants to work, be more independent and contribute to the community, that he or she must wait because there is not enough money.

When was OPTIONS established?

Originally a part of TARC, OPTIONS has provided quality services since 1973. In 1990, it was decided that two separate, non-profit agencies were required to meet the needs of the community. OPTIONS was created by parents of individuals with disabilities to provide community services so that children and adults could continue to live at home.

What ages does OPTIONS serve?

OPTIONS serves all ages and is presently enrolled with the state to serve children through the Children’s Choice Waiver.

How many people does OPTIONS support?

At any one time, about 200 individuals and their families are benefiting from OPTIONS services.  Hundreds more have had their lives changed by OPTIONS.

How many of the people OPTIONS supports are employed?

OPTIONS provides the training and support needed for about 170 individuals with disabilities.  Services include:

• Vocational Training – prepares individuals with the skills needed to work in the community.

• Job Placement – finds jobs for individuals and provides them with the support needed to succeed.

• Community Involvement – facilitates opportunities to participate in community events & routine social activities.

• Transportation – assist individuals in getting to and from work, doctors appointments, grocery, etc.

• Supported Independent Living – provides supports as needed in the living arrangement of the individual’s choice.

• Community Homes – provides 24-hour residential care for small groups of individuals.

• Assistance with Daily Living – provides assistance with personal hygiene, meal preparation, health care, etc.

• Family Support – helps the family to care for their family member in their own home.

What exactly are community homes?

A community home is home to six individuals with 24-hour, awake staff who provide training and support. Each home is located in a residential setting. 

How are Community Homes accepted in the community?

Over the years community homes have become accepted in the community and neighbors have learned people with disabilities make good neighbors.  People with disabilities are eager to be accepted.  As neighbors get to know the individuals that live near them, they come to appreciate and enjoy their company.  

Who oversees operations, approves expenditures, etc.?

Sylvia Bush serves as the CEO of OPTIONS and reports to OPTIONS volunteer Board of Directors.  Trained, professional staff work with her to ensure the daily operation of OPTIONS meets all state and federal regulations. OPTIONS has had an annual external audit with an unqualified opinion for many years. OPTIONS programs are licensed by the State of Louisiana.  OPTIONS has an excellent history of running a fiscally sound operation.  

For answers to additional questions, please contact OPTIONS at (985) 345-6269 or email us at info@Options4u.org.  

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19362 West Shelton Road, Hammond, LA 70401 * Phone: (985) 345-6269 * Fax: (985) 345-0297