Safe Transit: How We Help Clients Attend Local Memorial Day Parades

Harrell Homes
May 11
2 min read

At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to honor our nation’s heroes and participate in our community’s most cherished traditions. This Memorial Day, we are proud to provide specialized transportation and support services that make Philadelphia’s parades and ceremonies accessible for adults with intellectual disabilities and autism.

Navigating a large community event can be a challenge, but with the right "scaffolding," our clients can experience the joy of the day with confidence and safety.

Bridging the Gap: Home to the Community

Our Community Participation Support (CPS) services are at the heart of our mission. We don't just provide a ride; we provide a complete support system to ensure every outing is a "Win."

1. Specialized, Safe Transportation

Attending local favorites like the Laurel Hill Memorial Day Parade or events at the National Constitution Center starts with a reliable journey. Our vehicles are sanitized, modern, and driven by staff trained specifically to support individuals with IDD.

Door-to-Door Service: We eliminate the stress of parking and long walks by providing direct drop-offs and pickups.
Safe Navigation: We help clients master the skills needed for community safety, ensuring they feel secure from the moment they leave home.

2. Sensory-Aware Planning

Parades are exciting, but they can also be loud and overwhelming. Our team practices Vigilant Observation to manage sensory needs:

Nature Sessions & Quiet Zones: We identify the best viewing spots that offer a bit of "Nature Session" calm or proximity to quiet areas if a client needs to take a breather.
Sensory Prep: We ensure clients have their "sensory toolkit," including noise-canceling headphones for marching bands and fire trucks.

3. Professional Emotional & Physical Oversight

Every journey is supported by our dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and nursing staff. Whether it's practicing social cues in a crowd or navigating a new environment, our team provides the "Predictable Sanctuary" necessary for our clients to flourish.

Acceptance in Action

At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we know that Acceptance means adjusting the environment so our clients can lead their own journeys. By providing safe transit to Memorial Day events, we are ensuring that every Person of Worth in our care is seen, heard, and included in the fabric of Philadelphia life.

Join Our Mission

Are you a compassionate caregiver looking to make a difference? We are hiring DSPs! We help our team earn required credits while they work to provide high-standard care.