Janus Developmental Services has begun initial planning for a new facility on the grounds of their present location in Noblesville. Christina Sorensen, president and CEO, said Monday that American Structurepoint is providing the planning service for a building that will handle needs of the organization for 25 years. No timetable has yet been established for financing and construction.
Last year Janus purchased 19 acres immediately west of their facilities at 1555 Westfield Road for eventual expansion. The acreage is occupied by Noblesville Golf and Batting Center, a recreational complex which includes a driving range, batting cages, miniature golf and sandlot volleyball. The center includes a concession stand updated for use by Janus clients with disabilities to be trained for employment.
Janus serves 200 disabled residents age 18 and over, enabling them to pursue education, employment and skills for independent living. Some clients are also placed at the Government and Judicial Center café for employment practice.
A number of programs at Janus are available for the disabled. Sorensen says this year, for example, it was discovered that art produced by clients would successfully sell to the public. Some is now exhibited for sale to allow the clients to earn their own money.
A major and growing service of Janus is their public transportation system. A total of 22 buses now transport not only those enrolled at Janus, but members of the general public. Hamilton County Express will, upon a call, go to anyone’s home and provide a ride for a fee. During the past year there were 58,639 rides provided for folks in need of transportation to a doctor’s office, grocery, etc.
Recently, Janus partnered with Riverview Health to provide transportation for hospital patients. Four new vehicles were purchased for this expanded service.
And, during the past summer Janus provided summer activities for youngsters ages 14 and over with special needs.
The expanding role of the organization is maintained by an 88-member paid staff. Janus is operating on a $4.5 million budget this year. Funding comes from federal, state and local government sources, plus private fundraising efforts.
The non-profit organization is governed by a board of 20 county citizen members. Board president is John Schuler.