Day Program

Looking for friends and fun things to do? Start with You Belong Here, a page written just for you.

We go beyond basic programming by offering an unusually wide variety of activities designed to spark imagination and build confidence. Options range from hands-on workshops like 3D printing and art classes to cooking lessons, dance, and after-hours programs. Through it all, our programs adapt to each person’s interests and schedule. We know making friends can be hard when your week is already full, so we build real chances to connect into the day and the evening. Along the way, coaching and encouragement help Members grow their social worlds. Ask Members what they love most, and you’ll hear about seeing their friends and spending time with staff they know well.

Our approach is built on flexibility, with each person deciding what fits, from what’s for lunch to how to join in. For one Member who loves soccer, that meant joining the Special Olympics team as a manager rather than a player. That same flexibility shapes the whole week. 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 means more people can participate, regardless of their work schedule, living situation, or support needs.

Our Day Program enriches daily life, fosters independence, and builds meaningful connections for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 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. On a given day, that might include a dance break or a lunchroom singalong. On service plans, you may see this listed as Specialized Habilitation (SH).
• Supported Community Connections (SCC) program | Meaningful, community-based outings help Members build skills and give back. That might mean volunteering at food banks and thrift stores, exploring museums and local landmarks, or practicing real-world interactions that promote confidence and social connection.
• Volunteer opportunities | Everyone has something to offer. Our volunteer placements help Members build 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. We also build workplace readiness, from following routines to job-specific training.
• 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.

Want to see real-life examples of our day programming? Check out our Day Program Facebook page.

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

Currently, we offer our adult day program primarily at our regional headquarters in Grand Junction. Services may vary by location, so we encourage you to contact your regional HQ. We’ll explore options with you based on where you live and what you need.

Most people access Day Program through the Developmental Disabilities (DD) waiver or the Supported Living Services (SLS) waiver. Private insurance or other funding sources occasionally cover services, too. Your local case management agency (CMA) determines eligibility. You can find yours in the state’s case management agency directory.

Navigating systems like Medicaid and Social Security can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to do it 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 join in? Once a referral comes in, we’ll review what support each person needs. Next, we’ll set up a meet and greet with the Member and the people important to them. From there, we complete intake and hold a person-centered meeting to plan around each person’s interests and goals. You’re welcome to ask about visiting the program, too.

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