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
At Care Support Services, our compassionate team, affectionately known as the Care Bears, is dedicated to helping each individual thrive. We provide personalized support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who benefit from additional assistance throughout their day, with staffing ratios ranging from 1:1 to 1:6. Through individualized programming, visual supports, and a variety of engaging activities, participants are empowered to make choices, develop new skills, and pursue their personal goals.
From cooking, sewing, pottery, and art projects to horticulture, community outings, and customized learning activities, participants enjoy meaningful opportunities to build confidence, foster independence, and connect with others in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Best Fit for Individuals Who:
- Need assistance with daily participation and engagement
- Benefit from individualized learning opportunities
- Want to explore hobbies, interests, and community activities
- Require varying levels of support (1:1 through 1:6)
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Innovative Services
Merrick's Innovative Services provides a structured, supportive environment for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who benefit from individualized guidance, consistent routines, and behavioral support.
Participants engage in enriching activities such as pottery, painting, arts and crafts, music therapy, cooking, and community outings that promote creativity, independence, and social connections. With staff-to-participant ratios of 1:1, 1:2, and 1:4, the program offers personalized support while helping individuals build skills, confidence, and meaningful community involvement.
Best Fit for Individuals Who:
- Need consistent routines and structure throughout the day
- Benefit from behavioral support and redirection
- Require more intensive staff support (1:1, 1:2, or 1:4)
- Thrive in a predictable environment focused on engagement and personal growth
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Memory Care
Memory Care provides specialized support for adults experiencing cognitive disabilities, including Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and Parkinson's disease. Designed as a smaller, quieter program, Memory Care offers a structured and predictable environment that helps reduce anxiety, promote comfort, and encourage continued independence. With staffing ratios of 1:2 and 1:4, participants receive personalized support tailored to their individual needs.
Participants engage in a consistent daily routine that includes social interaction, cognitive stimulation, and meaningful activities adapted to their abilities and interests. Weekly offerings such as art therapy, music therapy, sewing, pottery, horticulture, self-advocacy, and community outings help participants stay active, connected, and engaged. By providing specialized support for memory loss and cognitive changes, Memory Care enables individuals to maintain meaningful relationships, daily routines, and community involvement for as long as possible.
Best Fit for Individuals Who:
- Are experiencing memory loss or cognitive changes
- Benefit from a structured routine and consistent support
- Thrive in a calm, low-distraction environment
- Enjoy social, creative, and cognitively engaging activities tailored to their abilities
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
