Supportive Services
Transportation
Many DesertArc clients who attend day programs and workshops operated at and from DesertArc facilities require assistance with their transportation needs in order to attend the programs. DesertArc operates a bus and van service that provides daily transportation and para-transit services to those who qualify for such assistance. The costs are paid by IRC and DesertArc. This service is integral to allowing DesertArc clients to attend programs on a daily basis. As a result, DesertArc has become a major bus transportation company to support its primary mission.
DesertArc hires and trains drivers and bus attendants that meet all Federal and State Commercial Driver regulations and requirements. In the Coachella Valley, drivers currently transport 215 plus+ clients from the Salton Sea to Cabazon, and all the cities in between. The Morongo Valley Basin area drivers transports up to 58 plus clients from 29 Palms to Morongo Valley.
Additionally, DesertArc is actively involved with the transportation of Special Olympics, the Tour de Palm Springs fundraising event, and other events that benefit the organization's needs.
Case Management
DesertArc provides individualized case management for each client enrolled in DesertArc programs. The case manager assists the Regional Center in the preparation of an individualized Individual Programs Plan (IPP) for each client. This service’s primary function is to ensure that each person is given specialized assistance that will allow him/her to achieve identified personal goals. Each client is assigned a case manager who maintains frequent contact with the client and the client’s assigned program manager to ensure that any issues are appropriately addressed and assess client progress in meeting program goals and outcomes. Each client has a case file that is frequently updated to ensure that the all relevant information about each client is documented and maintained for future records. Client records are maintained confidentially in accordance with State and Federal laws.
Case managers frequently interface with client caregivers and Regional Center representatives or Department of Rehabilitation representatives to communicate concerns and help solve problems. This is a critical linkage in the care of each client.
The Director of Client Services oversees the case management function. The director is also responsible for addressing client complaints, advocating on behalf of clients and performing special investigations on client care issues when appropriate. The director can be reached at 760.346.1611.
Hot Meals
DesertArc operates a Hot Meals service to clients who participate in day service conducted for the Palm Desert Campus. Eligible clients receive a free breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack. The purpose is to provide an opportunity to have nutritious meals while participating in DesertArc programs to help promote their overall well-being. This program is supported through a combination of State reimbursements, client payments, special grants and donations. One hundred and twenty clients receive free meals while the others pay $2.50-$3.00 for lunch. It is the intent of DesertArc to expand the number of people eligible to receive free meals.
Nursing and Medication Assistance
Two full-time Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) assure that medical needs are addressed and medications are administered properly during medical hours. They are also responsible for performing staff TB testing and in-service training on client health-related topics.