** Delaware Residents: Qualifies for Lifespan Waiver Respite Funds**
Sliding scale payments available
The Launch Lodge is a supportive community for
intensive independent living skills training
through collaboration and recreation.
About Us
The Launch Lodge
The Launch Lodge was developed by Dr. Dina Friedman, a clinical psychologist and the mother of a daughter with special needs. Dr. Friedman believes all of our children have greater capability for independent living than some systems allow.
The Launch Lodge is a space to support and encourage teen and young adult girls with special needs to stretch and grow and tap into more of their potential. The program will help build curiousity and confidence in a safe, nuturing and fun enviroment.
The Program
The Launch Lodge is an overnight retreat for teenage and young adult girls with special needs. The program is committed to fostering independence while providing support and guidance.
The young women will reside at a retreat center near coastal Delaware. They will have supervision (2:1) with staff with special needs experience. Independent living skills will be developed through daily gatherings and diverse activities (meal planning and prep, house cleaning, community living tasks). There will be a variety of outings (e.g. shopping and recreation) aimed at developing crucial social skills, instilling unwavering confidence and nurturing lasting friendships.
The goal is to help each young lady to embrace their strengths and gain confidence in new skills, while striving for collaboration and independence is the goal of the program.
Engaging Experiences
Participants will gain independence and confidence through these new responsibilities while working as a team. There will also be oppotunities for leadership roles while sharing strengths and encouraging others.
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Cooking / Meal Prep
The young ladies will work together to whip up delicious dishes and discover the joy of cooking while creating group meals. (with support as needed)
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Grocery Shopping
Participants will make their shopping list and go grocery shopping. The girls will have an opportunity to make collaboritive choices, discover new recipes and expand their horizons.
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Cleaning & Laundry
The young ladies will boost their confidence by creating an organized environment where cleanliness fuels creativity and fosters clarity.
Empowering Adventures
Participants will thrive in our supportive environment while embracing new adventures.
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Creative Expression
The girls will have opportunities to have their imagination soar with creative experiences. While nuturing self expression, they will enjoy relaxing outlets to explore their imagination and emotions.
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Outdoor Activities, Sports & Playtime
Participants will embrace their adventurous spirits and create exciting experiences through beach trips, mini golf, and other fun summer activities.
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Life Skills
The ladies will pave their way for a successful future by learning empowering skills like navigating public transit, interacting with store clerks and paying for purchases.
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