Navigating Big Changes
Life is full of transitions. Moving from high school to adult life, or moving from a nursing facility to your own home, can feel overwhelming. We make the process easier.
Our team works with young adults to prepare for jobs, college, or independent living. We also assist individuals who want to transition out of institutional care back into the community.
We help you create a plan, connect with resources, and build the skills you need for your next chapter.
Supporting Life's Next Step — Your Way
Life is full of transitions — and they can be especially complex for people with disabilities. Whether you are a young adult moving into adulthood, someone returning to the community from an institution, or facing a major life change, Disability Network Lakeshore is here to support your next step with planning, resources, and encouragement.
We do not tell you what to do. We work alongside you to explore your options, set your goals, and move forward on your terms.
What We Help With
Youth Transition (School to Adult Life)
We support students with disabilities and their families as they plan for life after high school. This might include:
- Understanding rights and options after graduation
- Exploring post-secondary education, training, or work
- Building independent living skills
- Learning self-advocacy and decision-making
- Connecting with adult services and supports
The move from school services to adult services is one of the biggest changes a young person will face. Starting the conversation early — even years before graduation — makes the path much smoother.
Community Transition (From Institutions to Independence)
We assist individuals who want to move out of nursing homes, group homes, or other institutional settings and return to life in the community. This support may include:
- Exploring housing options and connecting you to service providers
- Assessing home modification needs and adaptive equipment
- Connecting to transportation and health care needs
- Peer support from people who have made similar moves
Diversion Services (Preventing Unwanted Institutionalization)
We also help people who are at risk of institutional placement — due to a sudden medical event, loss of housing, or lack of support — stay in their homes or move to more integrated, community-based settings when appropriate. Acting quickly during a crisis can keep a short-term problem from becoming a long-term placement.
Our Approach
Transitions can be overwhelming — but they do not have to be isolating. We provide guidance, planning, and hands-on support so that you can move forward with clarity and confidence. Every transition looks different, and we will work with you to build a plan that fits your needs, goals, and pace.
This is not just about a change in setting — it is about building a life that reflects your values, your choices, and your right to live independently.
Planning a Transition or Supporting Someone Who Is?
Transition services are free for people with disabilities in Ottawa and Allegan counties. Call us at (616) 396-5326 or reach out through our contact form to learn how we can help.