Dream Team Group Home is one of Miami’s most reputable group homes. This month they celebrated the grand opening of their second group home in Miami. Cynthia Gay is the founder and director of the program, who has been actively involved in the disability field for over 20 years. She says her brother Chris, who was born with Down syndrome, has inspired her and her family to devote their careers and life work to working with individuals with developmental disabilities. “He inspires me every day. I knew very early on, while we were growing up, that I needed to make a difference in the lives of other individuals with special needs.”
An Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) licensed group home is generally a house where up to 6 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities may live. A group home is not an institution, hospital, foster home, supported living or an Adult Living Facility. Group homes are located in neighborhoods alongside other homes that will appear just like the group home. The goal is to have group homes be fully integrated in all communities and so their appearance is no different from another home in the same neighborhood. Individuals who reside in group homes are supported with all of their needs and learn to be more independent in order to lead fulfilling lives while reaching their life goals.
Dream Team Group Home was founded in 2010 and since then has made a lasting impact in the lives of their residents, their families and the community. Their residents are their top priority. “Nothing is ever enough for our guys. They need something and we find a way.” Their first home was a huge success and they have opened a second home due to the overwhelming support and encouragement from so many people in the community. There are many things that set their homes apart. Their homes are family-run and they are truly focused on providing only person centered care.
Their grand opening was well attended and I was very impressed with how beautiful the home was. Its decor was one that truly encompassed their vision. It has a gorgeous new kitchen, pristine bathrooms, along with everything you would want or need in your own house. The group home staff goes well beyond their responsibilities, and treats their residents as family members. It is clear that the well-being of these guys is the main focus of Cynthia and her team.
For more information about Dream Team Group Home, visit <www.dreamteamgrouphome.com>.
