Arjun’s Story

When Arjun joined SCO’s Individual Residential Alternatives program in 2014, his developmental disabilities and behavioral challenges greatly impacted his ability to function. They were so severe that he could not be in crowds, public spaces, and was unable to socialize. There were times when Arjun would refuse to eat meals with his housemates.

With the help and dedication of SCO’s staff, a plan was developed to help Arjun address these challenges and work towards achieving his goals. Last summer, Arjun attended the YMCA Camp Huguenot with his peers where he had a blast doing a variety of activities such as archery, rock climbing and canoeing. The fun did not stop there! After the camping trip, Arjun took a major step forward and drove to Battery Park with his sister and aunt. He entered the car with no hesitation and walked the High Line, went for pizza and drove around Manhattan with his family where he showed almost zero signs of anxiety.

Today, Arjun attends SCO’s community habilitation, partakes in various activities such as volunteering at canned food drives, delivering food to elderly adults, going to the bowling alley, and going to the local church’s gym to play basketball and soccer. Arjun spends quality time with his peers and he is now able to enjoy going out and be among his friends and family. He is also taking road-trips with his parents to Virginia and going on camping trips with his housemates without having anxiety.

Arjun’s breakthrough is the definition of a success story! He continues to thrive, and we are sure that Arjun will continue to work towards more independence and integration into his community.

 

Daniel’s Story

At 24, Daniel has overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. Born with developmental disabilities, behavioral health issues, and addicted to drugs, Daniel entered foster care as an infant. He was adopted as a toddler by a loving mother who tragically passed away just a few years later. Daniel’s aunt cared for him until his needs eventually became too difficult for her to manage on her own. That’s when he was introduced to SCO.

When he was 15, Daniel came to SCO’s Extraordinary Needs group home, where specially-trained staff provide care, guidance, and a home-like experience for adolescents with developmental disabilities. At first, Daniel was reserved and had trouble communicating. But as time went on, Daniel gained confidence and found his voice – literally – while attending singing and performance workshops. Daniel

Since then, his progress has been nothing short of remarkable. Daniel is now able to talk and has become quite the social butterfly. He loves to bowl, watch Jeopardy, and engage in community activities. A budding diplomat (and Mets fan), he even attended a Yankees game with his housemates, although he refused to cheer.

Daniel is open and honest and has become a model resident. He’s a meticulous dresser who always puts his best foot forward. “That’s how we do it at SCO,” he says. Often referred to as the mayor of the house, Daniel keeps track of everything and everyone, advocating for himself and his peers.

As Daniel transitions to adulthood, SCO remains by his side with the supports he needs for a bright future. Last year, Daniel moved into a new SCO Individual Residential Alternative (IRA), a residence designed specifically for adults with challenges like his. Here Daniel continues to receive services, supports, and encouragement to live a full and independent life. New routines, new friends, and new adventures lay in store for Daniel, who is navigating his new surroundings like a pro.

← Back

Ottilie Residential Treatment Facility

The Ottilie Residential Treatment Facility (RTF) is located on six acres in the heart of Queens. It is the only OMH residential facility that exclusively serves children, adolescents, and young adults with a serious emotional disturbance as well as developmental delays. The 24-hour facility provides the most intensive residential mental health services available outside of a hospital. The Ottilie RTF offers a highly structured, therapeutic setting that focuses on strengthening family connections, providing a trauma sensitive approach to treatment and preparing the youth to return to their communities. Residents attend the Theresa Paplin School, an ungraded, non-diploma bound New York State special education school. View our Ottilie/Theresa Paplin School brochure..

Who Can Benefit from this Program

Youth with SED needing a highly structured residential setting with all services on site.

Age Criteria

10 -21 years of age

How to Access this Program or Service

Referrals are accepted from C-SPOA (Children’s Single Point of Access)

SCO Family of Services Price Transparency

As part of SCO’s ongoing commitment to integrity, and to be transparent, we are providing you with information about our payment rate for services provided at the Ottilie and Madonna Heights RTFs.  The RTF receives a daily rate that includes the program’s operating costs and services provided to the residents as needed. The link below contains a list of available services.

SCO RTF Price Transparency Data

Related News

Garden of Dreams Foundation and SCO Unveil Refurbished Gymnasium at Ottilie Residential Treatment Facility

December 10, 2015

Fordham University Highlights Theresa Paplin School’s Dream Factory

May 25, 2023

Arjun’s Story

Overcoming severe anxiety to achieve personal growth at SCO Individual Residential Alternative (IRA)

Read Arjun’s Story

Daniel’s Story

Finding his voice - literally - at SCO's residence for adults with developmental disabilities

Read Daniel’s Story

100%

of eligible residents at our Dix Hills Residential Treatment Facility participated in work, internship, or volunteer activities

Support Our Mission

With your gift, you can help strengthen New York families and unlock potential for children and adults with special needs.

Donate Now