Survey Findings: Programs for Adults w/IDD in Boerne
In the Fall of 2024, LTO Ventures conducted an online survey of families and adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) in Boerne and the surrounding region. We notified prospective respondents through email campaigns like this one, website and social media postings, and the SPOND app used by Boerne Blaze Special Olympics to manage the activities of the delegation.
The purpose of the survey was to gather data from adults with IDD and their families in and around Boerne about their interest in programming and services-related issues to help LTO Ventures prepare the educational and social-recreational programs it hopes to launch later in 2025.
The findings indicated:
There was solid interest in an all-day 18-21 transition program. Boerne ISD offers a federally-mandated 18+ program, but a significant number of students exiting the high school Life Skills program bypass this option in search of something more or different.
There was very high interest in educational opportunities after 21 that are personalized to their abilities, interests, and person-centered plans. Almost 2/3s expressed an interest in a 2-year structured tuition-based program like community college designed for individuals with IDD.
Almost 100 percent of respondents expressed interest in a robust calendar of organized programs, outings, and clubs conducted in the community with paid staff and trained volunteers providing supports, especially during evenings and weekends.
More than 80 percent of respondents expressed a desire for a weekday structured day program operating from of a central location and in the community with paid staff and trained volunteers providing supports.
More than 75 percent of respondents expressed interest in developing job readiness skills and finding some kind of volunteer or employment opportunity in the community they could enjoy and that was matched to their abilities, as long as it didn't threaten their SSI or Medicaid.
More than 75 percent expressed interest in pre-vocational, vocational, and/or business creation programs.
LTO Ventures is using these survey findings and discussions with self-advocates, families, guardians, and providers to develop its Educational and Enrichment programs which we hope to launch in the Fall of 2024.
Download the full Report of Findings [HERE].