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What is Day Habilitation?

Creativity, connection, and meaningful experiences aren’t just extras, they’re essential to living a full and joyful life.

Day Habilitation, also known as Day Program, programs empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through structured activities and community experiences that build life skills, foster social connections, and expand possibilities. These programs combine recreational activities, volunteer opportunities, and skill-building workshops to help individuals gain independence, participate in their communities, and discover their strengths. Whether someone wants to learn new skills, give back through volunteering, or simply connect with others, day programming provides the skilled support and flexible structure to make it happen.

The Ariel Difference

We go beyond basic programming by offering an unusually wide variety of activities designed to spark imagination and build confidence. From hands-on workshops like 3D printing and art classes to cooking lessons, dance, and after-hours options, our programs adapt to each person’s interests and schedule. We know that building friendships can be challenging, especially for those living in host homes or those who are focused on work during the day. So we create real opportunities for connection throughout the day and evening, with coaching and encouragement to help individuals grow their social worlds in healthy, meaningful ways.

Our approach is built on flexibility and choice. Members aren’t limited to a set schedule or location—they can access facility-based enrichment, community volunteering, vocational training, and evening programs based on what works for their life. This comprehensive approach ensures everyone can participate, regardless of their work schedule, living situation, or support needs.

Meet Jared

Jared is in his 40s and uses a wheelchair, but our Day Program staff would tell you that hasn't slowed him down. Over the past 14 years, we've worked hard to ensure he gets opportunities to do whatever he wants to do. Jared loves four-wheeling, hunting, shooting, and Rockies games. He's gone whale watching and hiking at Yellowstone.

Our Day Program Manager says “Jared’s love of life and people knows no bounds.”

Types of Day Habilitation Services

Our Day Habilitation programs enrich daily life, foster independence, and build meaningful connections for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, whom we respectfully refer to as Members. Members choose from experiences that reflect their interests, abilities, and goals:

  • Facility-Based Enrichment | On-site activities at Ariel locations include arts and crafts, educational workshops, life skills activities, and our "Get Fit" program—accessible health and wellness through fun, adapted fitness classes.
  • Community-Based Connections (SCC Program) | Meaningful outings help Members build skills and give back through volunteering at food banks and thrift stores, exploring museums and local landmarks, and practicing real-world interactions that promote confidence and social connection.
  • Volunteer Opportunities | Everyone has something to offer. Our volunteer placements help Members build self-esteem and purpose, develop social connections, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
  • Vocational Skill Development | For Members exploring employment, we offer structured support to build soft skills like teamwork and communication, plus workplace readiness including following routines and job-specific training. This prepares Members for supported or independent employment when they're ready.
  • After-Hours Programming | Creativity and connection don't follow a 9-to-5 schedule. Evening and weekend opportunities include 3D printing and technology exploration, advanced art classes, cooking workshops, and dance and movement sessions. These programs expand access and allow Members to engage in activities that support growth and expression outside traditional hours.

Additional support available with Day Habilitation Services

We know that support works best when it’s connected. Our other in-house services complement Day Habilitation to create a full-circle support system that’s tailored to each person’s unique needs and goals. Members can access and benefit from:

Care Coordination

Understanding what services are available and creating a plan that works for your family can be a lot to handle on your own. Our coordinators guide you through the process to avoid getting overwhelmed by the system.

Nursing Services

Our Registered Nurse helps with medical questions, coordinates hospital visits, and teaches families how to manage health conditions. We provide direct nursing support in Grand Junction and care planning throughout Colorado.

Job Support

Find and keep the right-fit job in your community with coaching, skills training, and ongoing workplace support. The goal is helping Members build a meaningful career that matches their interests and abilities.

Where we provide Day Habilitation Services

Currently, Day Habilitation Services are primarily offered at our regional headquarters in Grand Junction. Because services may vary by location, we encourage you to reach out to our team so we can explore options with you based on your location and specific needs.

How to get started with Day Habilitation Services

Most people access Day Habilitation through the Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver. Private insurance or other funding sources may occasionally be used. Eligibility is determined through Case Management Agencies (CMAs)—in the Grand Junction area, this is provided through Rocky Mountain Health Plans (RMHP).

Navigating systems like Medicaid and Social Security can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. Our team is here to guide you through each step and connect you with the right people. We're happy to assist with questions, paperwork, and anything else you need.

Ready to begin? Contact us to start the enrollment process. Our friendly staff will walk you through everything, answer your questions, and help you explore the services that are right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you don’t find what you’re looking for below, feel free to ask your question via our Contact Form.

If you or your loved one is age 18 or older and has a diagnosis of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), then yes! To confirm qualifications and to get started, please call (970) 245-1616.

A day-time engagement usually begins around 9:00 AM and runs until 2:00 PM. Depending on their selected activity, participants may either stay at Ariel or they may head out to nearby malls, museums, the pool or other community-based locations. Those who are interested in volunteer type activities may travel to local organizations such as Goodwill, Food Bank of the Rockies, The Arc, or recycling centers.

After-hours (evening and weekend) offerings provide additional opportunities for growth and enrichment outside the traditional program schedule. These may include specialized experiences such as 3D printing in a makerspace, hands-on art experiences, and cooking classes. Expanding these activities allows participants to enjoy unique engagements while addressing scheduling challenges within the traditional program hours.

All activities are designed to foster social connections and real-life experiences, supporting a balanced and individualized approach to participant development.

The participant! Case managers also play a critical role in helping to identify goals and desires through person-centered meetings, which are coordinated by Ariel staff alongside other team members.

We know some of our participants may have come from more institutionalized settings with less choice and more restrictions. It is one of our greatest joys to be able to offer a variety of options to people and to have them choose. Whether it’s type of programming, meals, and just about anything (considering safety, of course), we prioritize participant voice.

Typically, most of our Day Habilitation participants are 21 years old and up—some of our participants are octogenarians (in their 80s)!

We also can serve those who are younger (between 18 and 21 years old), but adults in this age group often continue to participate in programming arranged through their schooling, supported by their Children’s Habilitation Residential Program (CHRP) or Children’s Extensive Support (CES) waivers.

Day Habilitation is more focused on providing enrichment activities to foster personal growth and social connections. Vocational Services are more geared toward job-related skill building and acquiring employment.

There are no strict limitations on who can participate in Ariel’s Day Habilitation programs, as we pride ourselves on embracing tough situations and creating opportunities for everyone.

For example, individuals who are non-verbal or require assistance with eating, toileting, or mobility—such as those using wheelchairs or walkers—are welcomed and supported with care. Ariel also accommodates participants with medical needs, including those who rely on G-tubes or insulin delivery systems. By fostering an inclusive environment and offering additional assistance where needed, Ariel wants to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their challenges, can engage meaningfully in the program.

If you have questions about your specific situation, please contact us!

One of the positive outcomes we’ve seen is illustrated through the story of Bruce, a participant who transitioned from the Grand Junction Regional Center into a community-based setting. Through participating in Day Habilitation programming centered around his interests, Bruce has blossomed and expanded his horizons. Gaining access to more opportunities, training, and skill-building activities, has redefined his perceived limits. Bruce has come to understand that the boundaries he once thought existed are far narrower than he imagined. His world has grown significantly larger, opening new avenues and doors for his personal development and self-discovery.

Then there’s Suze, who has cerebral palsy and a deep love for swimming and community outings. Despite the significant support needed for such activities, Ariel staff, along with the participant’s mother and host home, facilitated a visit to the Fruita Pool, using a specialized float device to make the experience safe and enjoyable.

Another inspiring story is that of Roy, who was once considered a dangerous individual due to his aggressive behavior, though through consistent support and dedicated efforts, he has transformed significantly. While he still experiences moments of anger, they are far less frequent and intense, allowing him to thrive in a more positive and controlled manner.

And that’s only a few of the many ways we’ve seen participants grow and benefit from our collaborative and compassionate services.

>> Unless otherwise noted, all images and names represent real Members but actual images and names have not been used for privacy reasons. <<