Center for Alternative Rehabilitation and Educational Services (C.A.R.E.S.)

is a non-profit facility that caters to indigent special children of Mandaluyong City. It was conceived through the collaboration of the Local Government of Mandaluyong City, headed by the Hon. Mayor Benjamine Abalos Jr. and the Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Adults & Children with Handicap (REACH) Foundation Inc. headed by Prof. Abelardo Apollo I. David Jr. MOccThy, OTRP.

It primarily advocates early intervention to promote optimum functioning of the child. It provides physical, occupational, speech therapy and SPED services geared towards promoting independence and improving the child’s quality of life.

The clinic has its principles and policies rooted on the Community-Based Model, which promotes empowerment of the client and the family towards community integration. In this setting, the family members, healthcare and education providers, as well as the community work together to ensure that opportunities are given to the client to maximize their potentials and have a better quality of life. Transfer of learning is made possible through the presence of professionals who work closely with dedicated community workers and volunteers.

Programs and Services

I. SCREENING BY DEVELOPMENTAL PEDIATRICIANS
II. EARLY INTERVENTION THERAPY PROGRAM (OT, PT, SP)
A. Assessment and Intervention Planning
B. Program Implementation
Individual Treatment Sessions
Group Intervention
Therapy Classes
C. Home-based Therapy
III. SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES
A. Assessment and Intervention Planning
B. Program Implementation
Bridging Program
Tutorials
IV. PRE-VOCATIONAL SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAM
A. Pre-vocational Skills Training Program and Behavior Training
B. Work Skills Training
C. Placement Program
V. SCHOOL VISITS
VI. CAREGIVER, FAMILY, AND TEACHER TRAINING

C.A.R.E.S. Organizational Structure

CHIEF THERAPIST
The chief therapist is a professional who initiates program development, service provision to the clients and training of the community workers. He/She has the following duties and responsibilities:

Administrative
  1. Guides and oversees the planning, development, implementation and evaluation of the rehabilitation and educational programs (free therapy and special education services both in the centers and home visits) under Project TEACH.
  2. Act as a liaison officer between the center and the supporting organizations.
  3. Conducts regular meetings with the parties and organizations involved to impart the status and the development of the program.
  4. Coordinates with interested organizations willing to support the program.
  5. Draft a letter of acknowledgement when the center receives donations.
  6. Provides orientation to the organizations and the CREW/volunteers about the program.
  7. Plans and implements meaningful learning experiences such as seminars and workshops to improve the CREW/volunteer’s confidence and competence.
Secretariat & Housekeeping
  1. Organizes the physical set-up of the center for adequate service provision.
  2. Coordinates with the CREW/volunteers and the other professionals regarding required materials and supplies.
  3. Recommends required materials, equipment, supplies and furniture to the Program Directors and other partner agencies, and oversees acquisition of these.
  4. Oversees regular inventory of therapy materials, equipment, supplies and furniture.
  5. Monitors the use of client files. Keeps all administrative files in order and makes sure all folders are labeled accordingly.
  6. Oversees organization of service, administrative and training files.
  7. Provides orientation to CREW/volunteers regarding housekeeping matters at the center.
  8. Ensures the availability of required forms.
  9. Receives and records all donations given by donors and supporting organizations.
  10. Records finances of the center and creates a financial statement, as required.
  11. Ensures that all clients are scheduled accordingly and is attended by the assigned CREW/volunteer.
  12. Creates a service schedule for patients and the assigned CREW/volunteer in coordination with the other professionals.