The Main Street Approach
Main Street has a unique philosophy of inclusion that we call “Bring Your Own Independence” or BYOI. Main Street is not a service provider and does not provide care giving or support staff to meet individualized, customized, one-on-one needs. Main Street residents and members are encouraged to bring with them whatever and whomever they need to help them fully access and enjoy the benefits of living at Main Street and/or being a member of the community center. This may mean bringing a family member, direct support professional, communication device, mobility aid, etc.
BYOI for Main Street Residents
By breaking the link between housing and services, Main Street residents have choice regarding their service providers and are not required to move if they wish to change service providers. Main Street’s research efforts have identified choice as one factor that enhances quality of life for residents.
Residents in need of extra support have the option to participate in Main Street Connect’s Community Coaching program for a fee. Community Coaches are life coaches who provide limited types of assistance. Learn more about Community Coaches here.
Residents and caregivers may also choose to participate in Main Street Connect’s educational programs that address best practices for enhancing independence and preparedness for emergency situations.

Main Street offers residents:
Welcoming environment for those of all abilities
Choice in terms of where & with whom to live
Accessible apartments & community spaces
Affordable apartments for those at 30%, 50% & 60% of AMI
- Safety features such as key fobs, fire detection on stoves, etc.
Front desk staff during limited daytime & evening hours
Location 500 ft. from Metro & bus, close to retail & entertainment
Opportunity to participate in Main Street Connect’s Community Coaching
Opportunity to participate in Main Street Connect’s safety & preparedness programs for residents & caregivers
Opportunities for parents & siblings to connect & share information

Main Street does not offer residents:
1:1 support or services
24/7 staffing
Transportation
- Healthcare or medication management
Employment services
Help finding roommates
BYOI for Main Street Members
Main Street offers social, educational, cultural and wellness programming to those who join our membership in our 10,000 sq. ft. of community space on the building’s ground floor. The community space is not a DDA day center or a drop off facility, and Main Street staff are not responsible for members when they are on Main Street premises or attending events. Main Street staff are caring individuals who are trained to provide inclusive, quality programming for people of all abilities based on principles of Universal Design.

Main Street offers members:
Welcoming environment for those of all abilities
Different membership options for personal activity choice
Accessible community spaces
Need-based financial aid for members
Wide range of social, cultural, educational & wellness programs
Safety & preparedness programs for members & caregivers
Opportunity to participate in Main Street Connect’s Community Coaching
Front desk staff during limited daytime & evening hours
Location 500 ft. from Metro & bus
- Staff trained in Universal Design for programming

Main Street does not offer members:
1:1 support or services
Transportation
- Healthcare or medication management
Employment services