All programming at Vista is focused on the goal of enabling individuals with disabilities to live as independently as possible in the wider community. At Vista the wider community is a classroom.
New students begin their journey toward independence with immersion in the residential Entrance Program, where they share a nurturing, accepting, and educational community with their peers. This comprehensive residential experience helps them build the self-confidence, self-esteem, and social and vocational skills necessary for greater independence. Through experiential activities and opportunities, students are learning skills that will enable them to live in the wider community, with support services as needed from Vista.
Vista offers a rich program of clubs and activities to meet many interests, develop new skills, and to promote student participation in local community life. Vista also creatively engages the general public, employers, and others as partners. Additionally, Vista students and members also reach out effectively to the wider community through Vista’s Diversity Awareness Program. Telling their own personal stories of achievements and challenges, Vista members make presentations about living successfully with their disabilities to local community and civic groups, as well as in the public schools. They become role models for others, educating the community toward greater understanding and acceptance.