Open Sky Community Services, Inc.

Alternatives is a non-profit agency that provides services to more than 2,000 individuals with developmental or psychiatric disabilities each year - providing the support they need to begin each day with a personalized plan to improve their lives. Headquartered in the historic Whitin Mill, we provide services throughout Central Massachusetts, including the Blackstone Valley and Greater Worcester, Milford, Leominster, Gardner and Fitchburg. Alternatives 55 programs include residential services, adult family care, employment services, day rehabilitation programs, clubhouse services and outpatient mental health counseling. Through our cultural arm, Valley CAST, we also sponsor community activities and events that individuals of all abilities can enjoy together, such as exhibits at the Heritage Gallery and performances at the Singh Performance Center and Alternatives Community Plaza. In addition to arts and culture events, Alternatives sponsors community projects throughout our service areas that meet community needs and bring people of all abilities together around common interests and goals.

Our mission is to provide the necessary skills and support so each individual may lead a satisfying and successful life in the settings of his or her choice with maximum use of community networks. SKILLS + SUPPORT = SUCCESS Thanks to the help and support of Alternatives, hundreds of Central Massachusetts residents with psychiatric or developmental disabilities are leading full and successful lives within their communities. Our organization?s staff and volunteers are committed to offering not just superior services, but real opportunities for people in need, including many who were formerly institutionalized. State funding sources describe Alternatives as "an honest, straight forward organization with a sense of humor that consistently shows vision and innovation." Alternatives? emphasis on collaboration and commitment to community inclusion has been making a difference in Central Massachusetts for 35 years and counting!