Groundbreaking Announced

Residential Services, Inc.

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Mandi Miller
Development Assistant
Residential Services, Inc.
mmiller@rsi-nc.org
(919)942-7391x200

                    RSI is ensuring healthier lifestyles for their residents
                    Groundbreaking of new activity center announced

CHAPEL HILL, N.C.-  Residential Services, Inc. is extending its commitment to improving the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities, and in a very active way. Encouraging healthy active lifestyles has always been a top priority for RSI, but with the development of their new recreational activity center they will have the resources and facility to implement them.

Groundbreaking for the 3,400 square foot recreational activity center will be held November 7th, 2010 during RSI’s annual Pig Pickin’. Thanks to Szostak Design, a renowned Chapel Hill architectural firm, the facility will boast a half-court gymnasium, fitness area, multi-purpose room, and engaging outside social area.

According to a University of Minnesota study, individuals with developmental disabilities are
likely to experience the impacts of aging decades before others. Also, among individuals with developmental disabilities there are higher rates of obesity, hypertension, osteoporosis, heart disease and diabetes (Kailes, 2003).  While physical activity is an important facet for all individuals facing aging, the benefits of recreational activity are significantly greater for those with developmental disabilities. Aside from the health benefits, it also improves cognitive abilities, social skills, and most importantly fosters a sense of self belief.

Over the last 35 years Residential Services Inc. has dedicated its time and energy to improving the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. RSI is recognized as a leader among similar organizations, particularly in their ability to acknowledge the onset of challenges proactively. This was evident in 2003 with the opening of Spring Glen, a retirement community for adults with developmental disabilities, and the first of its kind in the state of North Carolina. Now, once again, Residential Services Inc. is raising the standard for providing quality support.

Many of RSI’s residents are very active, especially with Special Olympics, some competing weekly. They enjoy a range of activities from basketball to yoga to golfing. The facility will offer residents a chance to participate in these activities on a more regular basis as well as in other team activities, and independent exercise, and will also provide opportunities to host and entertain.

The recreational activity center is expected to open in June 2011. RSI anticipates observing a variety of health improvements when conducting their future annual quality of life assessments, specifically a decrease in the rates of obesity.  They are hoping that the development of the recreational activity center will initiate the practice of healthier more active lifestyles among residents, as well as increase awareness among other state organizations.

Located in Chapel Hill, NC Residential Services Inc. was founded in 1974 as one of the first organizations in the state to provide community-based housing options as well as other related supports. Today, RSI operates 17 different homes and supports over 120 residents. It is governed by a dedicated Board of Directors and staffed with loyal individuals who all work towards the same simple goal: for the residents to lead fulfilling lives within the community.