Life Enrichment Services
Our Approach
Services for All Stages of Adulthood
Merrick offers programming for adults with disabilities beyond developing job opportunities and provides support throughout all stages of adulthood, including retirement.
To ensure clients continued access to a full array of services, Merrick leased and renovated a new space at 1239 Willow Lake Boulevard in 2022 and dedicated it exclusively for our life enrichment programs. Willow Lake opened for services in November 2022 and currently provides services for nearly 120 clients.
Willow Lake
At Willow Lake, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live, learn, grow and build meaningful relationships as valued members of their community. Individuals enrolled in Willow Lake’s programs have access to a wide range of services and experiences, including:
- community inclusion and volunteer oportunities
- therapeutic programming, including horticulture and music therapy
- arts, crafts, and creative expression
- sensory integration activities
- social and recreational opportunities
- positive behavior support planning
- augmented communication, including assistive technology
- enhanced staff-to-client ratios that provide individualized support
At Willow Lake, we celebrate each person’s abilities, encourage meaningful connections, and create opportunities for every individual to thrive. While we are committed to helping those we support reach their fullest potential, they inspire us every day with their resilience, talents, and joy.
Service Options
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Care Support Services
Welcome to Care Support Services, where our compassionate and dedicated staff (Also known as Carebears) are committed to helping each individual thrive. We support people who benefit from additional assistance and personalized care, offering staff-to-client ratios ranging from 1:1 to 1:6. Our team works alongside participants to encourage independence, build confidence, and provide support tailored to each person's unique abilities and goals.
Every day is filled with opportunities for choice, growth, and meaningful engagement. Through visual supports and individualized programming, participants are empowered to make decisions and actively participate in activities that interest them. Throughout the week, individuals enjoy a variety of enriching experiences including cooking, sewing, pottery, painting, crafts, science projects, and scrapbooking, as well as regular community outings and weekly horticulture activities.
At Care Support Services, we believe everyone can continue learning and developing skills. Participants have access to customized workbooks and activities designed specifically for their abilities and interests, including tracing, word searches, connect-the-dots, and other individualized learning opportunities. Whether learning a new skill, building friendships, or exploring the community, our welcoming environment empowers each person to reach their fullest potential.
Staff to Client Ratios: 1:1 to 1:6
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Memory Care
The Memory Care Department serves 13 clients and continues to grow. This specialized program supports individuals experiencing cognitive disabilities, including Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and Parkinson's disease. Memory Care is designed to provide a structured, predictable, and supportive environment that helps reduce confusion and anxiety while promoting independence and engagement.
Unlike the larger programming floor, Memory Care operates as a smaller, quieter program with a consistent daily routine. The structured schedule allows participants to feel comfortable and secure by knowing what to expect each day.
Each morning begins with current events and Coffee Club, encouraging social interaction and community engagement, followed by a writing activity that supports cognitive stimulation and communication skills. In addition to the daily routine, each day features a specialized activity tailored to the needs and interests of the individuals we serve:
- Monday: Sewing
- Tuesday: Art Therapy
- Wednesday: Community Outings
- Thursday: Self-Advocacy, Pottery, and Division Outings
- Friday: Music Therapy and Horticulture
All activities are adapted to meet the unique abilities and goals of participants in Memory Care, helping maintain cognitive function, social connections, creativity, and overall quality of life.
Memory Care was developed to allow individuals experiencing cognitive decline to remain active and engaged at Merrick rather than retiring prematurely from services. By providing specialized supports focused on memory loss and cognitive changes, the program enables clients to maintain meaningful daily activities, social relationships, and participation in their community for as long as possible.
Staff to Client Ratios: 1:2, 1:4
Eligible Funding Options
BI, CADI, CAC, DD, ICF/DD, Private Pay
Age Requirement
21+ (If under 25, the prospective client must have completed Vocational Rehabilitation Services)
Admission Inquiries
Emily Garrett
Intake Coordinator
(651) 789-6237
EmilyG@MerrickInc.org
