Supporting Individuals With Disabilities And Their Families Through Life’s Stages
The Community and Partnerships Program (formerly Families in Transition) is an initiative of The Branch that supports individuals with disabilities and their families through various life stages, including the transition from school and children’s services to the adult world as well as preparing for a time when caregivers can no longer continue in their role. We partner with community agencies to provide educational workshops and connect families to helpful resources and each other.
We accomplish that by providing programming to licensed community living arrangements (CLAs), also known as group homes, in partnership with Verland, another nonprofit organization operating residences specifically for individuals living with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
While residents in the Community and Partnerships Program embrace their newfound independence, we recognize that their families often have many questions and need a little support themselves. This may be the first time their adult children have lived away from the family home. In partnership with other local organizations, The Branch presents free education for families of individuals with disabilities. Educational topics include future planning, housing, waivers, advocacy, and other resources.
“It is wonderful knowing that he is in good hands at Goldberg House.…We see him often, he sleeps over, we go on vacations together and walk with him and take him to sporting events and concerts. But his HOME is the Goldberg House.”
—Kenny Steinberg, parent
The Solomon and Sarah Goldberg House
The Solomon and Sarah Goldberg House, which opened in Squirrel Hill in October 2014, is a community living arrangement that celebrates Jewish culture, with a kosher kitchen, Shabbat meals, and holiday celebrations. This is home for individuals living with intellectual disabilities, where they receive round-the-clock support from a full-time staff and volunteers.
Fully accessible and located near the Jewish Community Center and several synagogues as well as the public library and other neighborhood amenities, the Goldberg House is designed to help residents become engaged in the community. Verland, as the licensed provider, handles all staffing and clinical issues, while The Branch helps to facilitate connections with local congregations, neighbors, and groups.
The Solomon Family House
Named after Lois and Robert Solomon, the Solomon Family House opened in 2021 and is a community living arrangement much like the Goldberg House.
“Our son David moved into the Solomon House in March of 2021, and we have been impressed with The Branch for its proactive philosophy of Jewish inclusion. The many activities which David attends have enriched his life, and we are grateful to Alison and her colleagues for continuing to support meaningful Jewish experiences for David and his housemates.”
— Charles and Ellen Wilf