From
South Coast Today. Pictured from left, “Rosie” Duarte, Beth Briggs (playing piano) and Virginia Kennard, for whom Project Independence has made a significant difference in the quality of their lives.
NEW BEDFORD, Mass. — For more than a quarter-century, for three intrepid women who have cognitive disabilities, Project Independence has made a significant difference in the quality of their lives.
"Our program gives families freedom of choice and independence to carry on with their lives — to work, go marketing and shopping — knowing that their loved ones are in a safe, healthy and nurturing environment," said Karen Maciulewicz, Project Independence executive director. "We provide a program of services and activities that enable this population to remain in their homes and communities, bridging the widening gap between total independence and long-term institutionalization."
Among clients, the concept is a great success.
"I love this program — it's like family," said Elizabeth "Rosie" Duarte, 57, of Dartmouth. Duarte is confined to a wheelchair and moved in with her sister, Fernanda, when her parents died.
She arrives by van at the Elm Street site several days a week and is quick to point out that activities give her a great deal of satisfaction, especially "doing things with my hands," she said. "I like puzzles and painting."
According to Maciulewicz, the Project Independence Community Based Day Programs provide meaningful support for community integration and socialization.
Virginia Kennard, 87, lives in New Bedford with her adult foster care family and socializes with other clients doing arts and crafts — painting and making colorful bracelets for the upcoming food and craft fair on Nov. 14.
"I enjoy coming here and seeing all the people and playing bingo," she said.
"Like Virginia, many of our clients play bingo, but we use the game as a learning tool," Maciulewicz said. "We incorporate number recognition, hand-eye coordination skills and concentration."
To further create a realistic and worldly community, "our program offers support in a respectful and nonsegregated environment, and we focus on individual needs," Maciulewicz said. "Staff members speak Spanish and Portuguese. We ask, 'What does this person need to be successful in their environment?' and then provide that support in a comprehensive way."
Beth Briggs, 86, lives in New Bedford with her adult foster care family and enjoys listening to entertainers and serenades. "I really like computer games, piano and listening to songs," she said.
Beth takes pleasure in playing the piano, Maciulewicz said. "Everyone benefits, particularly when she plays during lunch."
A community nonprofit organization, Project Independence, located at 250 Elm St., was founded to address the health and well-being of the elderly, disabled and handicapped who need assistance and support to remain independent and live at home.
From South Coast Today. Pictured from left, “Rosie” Duarte, Beth Briggs (playing piano) and Virginia Kennard, for whom Project Independence has made a significant difference in the quality of their lives.
