Community Support Services that Change Lives
Families Matter Inc provides state-funded community support services designed to help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities build independence, develop meaningful relationships, and actively participate in their communities.
Who We Serve: Adults (18+) with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including Down syndrome, Autism, IDD, and related conditions, who live independently in the community and want to build life skills, social connections, and community involvement.
Our Promise:
• 3:1 staff-to-individual ratio for personalized attention
• Person-centered planning that puts your goals first
• No waiting list – immediate openings available
• All activities and outings are included at no additional cost
A Typical Day at Families Matter Inc
Program Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Skowhegan and Waterville run until 1:30 PM)
Core Daily Activities Include:
• Life Skills Development: Money management, cooking, self-care, and safety training
• Community Integration: Volunteer work, shopping, and real-world skill practice
• Social and Recreational Activities: Games, arts and crafts, music, and peer interaction
• Physical Fitness: Exercise programs, swimming, and outdoor activities
• Educational Opportunities: Computer skills, reading, and continued learning
Champions in Competition and Fun
Special Olympics Participation: We’re proud participants in Maine Special Olympics, offering year-round training and competition opportunities. Our individuals compete in a variety of events and participate in regional and state competitions, building confidence, teamwork skills, and celebrating achievements.
Social and Community Activities: Board games, card games, bingo, arts and crafts, music and karaoke, community outings to local parks, bowling alleys, movie theaters, shopping trips, restaurants, museums, and community fairs.
Health and Wellness Programming: Group fitness classes, walking groups, mindfulness sessions, health education workshops, visits to fitness centers and swimming pools, gardening activities, and animal therapy visits.
Educational and Cognitive Development: Trivia and memory games, book clubs, guest speaker presentations, library visits, technology tutorials, and educational museum tours.
Life Skills and Independence Building: Meal preparation and cooking classes, budgeting and money management practice, personal care routines, public transportation training, and practical shopping experiences.
Volunteer and Community Service: Regular volunteer opportunities at Augusta Food Bank, local animal shelters, nursing homes, park clean-ups, library assistance, senior centers, charity events, and creating care packages for community organizations.
Creative and Expressive Arts: Painting, drawing, photography excursions, drama and talent shows, creative writing, music therapy, and various mixed media projects.
From adaptive boxing and swimming to seasonal outings and community events, our recreational programming builds social skills, physical fitness, and pure enjoyment while fostering meaningful community connections.
A Knockout Partnership
At our Waterville location, 22 individuals visit O’Leary’s Boxing gym weekly for adaptive boxing training. When Ryan Jabar, who uses crutches, stepped into the ring with owner Mike Leary, staff member Brian McGovern provided supportive assistance while Ryan landed his punches. The crowd cheered as Ryan was declared the winner, showing how our community partnerships create opportunities for everyone to shine, regardless of ability level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much do services cost?
A: Our services are provided at no cost to individuals and families. Programming is funded through Maine’s state waiver programs.
Q: What geographic areas do you serve?
A: We serve Kennebec County and Somerset County through our four central Maine locations in Hallowell, Gardiner, Skowhegan, and Waterville.
Q: What is your staff-to-participant ratio?
A: We maintain a 3:1 staff-to-individual ratio per the Maine state-issued requirement.
Q: Is there a waiting list?
A: No! We have immediate openings available at all four locations.
Q: Do you provide transportation?
A: Yes, this is available based on location and individual needs. Augusta/Gardiner locations provide extensive transportation services, while Skowhegan and Waterville partner with Kennebec Valley Community Action Program for rural areas
Q: How do I get started? A: Visit our Getting Started page for comprehensive enrollment information, or contact us directly at 207-621-1024 to speak with a team member.
- Take the Next Step
Ready to learn more about how Families Matter Inc can support you or your loved one?
We serve Kennebec and Somerset Counties through four convenient locations, each offering the
same high-quality programming with local community partnerships and personalized attention.