New Concepts for Living (NCFL), the premier provider of community residences, day programs and therapeutic and behavioral services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in the Garden State, recently opened its new, state-of-the-art Achievement Center in Paramus, NJ.
The brand new, 81,423 square-foot building is located on Route 17, inhabiting the spot previously occupied by a Barnes & Noble store. NCFL purchased the property in 2022 and renovated the building to feature accommodations that fit the needs of both guests and staff.
The Achievement Center features a 5,500-square-foot “town square”, a spacious Main Street and walking paths. Additionally, there are life skills training rooms, which include a kitchen, supermarket, computer and technology lab, bedroom and laundry room. The center also contains dedicated spaces for recreation, prevocational training, sensory rooms, health and wellness screenings and therapeutic services
“Eight years ago, when I was blessed to take the helm of this incredible agency, I envisioned the improvements and growth necessary to better serve our family of extraordinary individuals as well as the growing I/DD community. I am humbled to see that dream become a reality,” stated NCFL CEO Steve Setteducati. “I want to sincerely thank our dedicated and compassionate staff, our participants and their guardians as well as our donors and supporters for making this day possible. I would also like to acknowledge the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), our Governor and State Legislature for their guidance and support in helping to make this happen.”
With the new Achievement Center, the NCFL, in collaboration with DDD, will be able to gradually increase the size of its day program over the coming years to help meet the demand for services for adults 21 and over with I/DD.
“We commend New Concepts for Living and their staff for providing comprehensive care and fostering an environment of independence, growth, and community integration for adults living with I/DD,” said Jonathan Seifried, Assistant Commissioner of the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities. “We look forward to continuing our partnership and expanding access to quality services and supports across the state.”
At the moment, NCFL’s programs currently have a waiting list of over 300 individuals while serving a part of NJ that accounts for the largest number of individuals with I/DD. Bergen County accounts for almost 10% of all New Jerseyans receiving DDD-funded services, which makes the expansion of these programs crucial.
“With not enough programs available and long waiting lists, parents of adults with special needs often struggle to find a safe and enriching place where their children can get the services and support they need to live full lives,” said Kim Catalfamo, mom of an adult child with Cerebral Palsy and multiple other health and special needs. “I’m so glad New Concepts for Living has opened this beautiful, comprehensive Achievement Center, which ensures more and more adults with I/DD have access to critical services.”
The new Achievement Center will help to support activities and services for adults who are living with a variety of intellectual and developmental disabilities. The renovations added to the building look to provide a better overall experience for those using its services.