Services

Friendship Ark Homes and Community Services provides a variety of supports that allow individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to thrive. The organization is faith-based and provides a family-oriented environment. Individuals served get together for activities and find a community of friends. This is very different from institutional living and other options for people over 18 in the State of Iowa. Families can also rest assured that their loved one is cared for into the future as many of them may lead long and fulfilling lives.

Housing

Friendship Ark is most recognized for the services we were founded on, our 24-hour residential group homes offering supports in a faith-based, family-oriented environment, and with that filling a need that was missing in the area. Individuals served eat meals together, are invited to attend church services, participate in community activities and work on individual goals. The family environment is structured similar to home living.  Each individual has their own bedroom to decorate as they like, yet shares common areas with the rest of the group. The houses are staffed continuously by caring individuals who treat the core members with respect, care and kindness.  Watch the video below for a virtual tour of one of our homes.

Supported Community Living

Friendship Ark has evolved over time and offers care in a 24-hour setting or less depending on the needs of the individual. Staff works on an individual basis as well as with the group to achieve personal and home skill training, community skills training, personal management skills training, communication skills training, advocacy, transportation and socialization.

Community Inclusion

Friendship Ark offers community living and activities during the day. Individuals enjoy participating in the community in an integrated setting that can enhance social development and adaptive skills. They also develop skills in performing activities of daily living and community living.  You may see individuals around town at the grocery store, in a local park, at the library or enjoying other interests.

Individualized Support

Friendship Ark supports are customized through a person-centered service plan. These plans are developed with input from the core member as well as others from their interdisciplinary team. This team can consist of the core member, guardian, case manager, service providers and anyone else the core member chooses. Goals are developed and the team works to help the core member reach their fullest potential.

For more information about benefiting from the services provided at Friendship Ark,
contact Executive Director, Jennifer Ellis at:
515.292.9556 or [email protected].

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