Empowering individuals with I/DD to build meaningful, self-directed social lives.
Now available to Redwood Coast Regional Center (RCRC) clients (ages 3 years and older) in Mendocino, Lake, Humboldt, and Del Norte counties.
Social Compass helps people find social and recreation opportunities shaped around their interests, preferences, and goals.
We coach real confidence and real skills, not just another activity –
so you can build a social life that’s truly your own.
We start by learning what matters most to you. Through virtual assessments, we explore your interests, strengths, and goals while identifying anything that may be getting in the way of social experiences.
We map out what matters most to you, then build goals and supports around what’s meaningful to you, in partnership with you and your circle of support.
Our coaches work with you and your support team to: plan and prepare for activities; overcome barriers like anxiety, cost, transportation, or technology; learn how to find events, connect with others, and build confidence; and explore resources like digital community calendars, local recreation platforms, community organizations, interest groups, and apps such as UVENTi. We complement, not replace, your natural support system and existing services.
Virtual interest groups, social skill-building activities, and an Event Planning Club offer fun, low-pressure ways to try new things. We guide you through small steps that build toward bigger successes.
A few examples of the interests people explore: hiking groups, art classes, cooking, gaming, fitness, music, volunteering, faith communities, sports, book clubs, photography, gardening, animal care, coffee meetups, and community events.
Our team helps you discover and engage with real community groups and events that reflect your interests. We promote inclusion by partnering with recreation providers and supporting them to welcome all individuals.
As you try new experiences, we check in, reflect, and celebrate your progress. Your plan evolves with you, because your goals and interests matter.
Everyone deserves the chance to connect, belong, and enjoy the activities that bring joy. The Social Recreation Connection Service helps individuals discover their interests, build confidence, and participate in social and recreational experiences that truly matter to them.
Social Compass works alongside the providers, families, and support teams already involved, building long-term independence rather than replacing current supports.
Through personalized coaching and guided exploration, we support individuals, involving their circle of support along the way, in developing lifelong skills for community involvement.
Participating in recreational and social activities supports better physical and mental health, stronger communication and social skills, higher confidence and self-esteem, greater independence and decision-making, and reduced loneliness and increased belonging. A vibrant social life opens the door to joy, connection, and personal growth.
Individuals of ages 3+ with I/DD within the RCRC catchment area (Mendocino, Lake, Humboldt, and Del Norte counties) who want to explore interests, build friendships, boost confidence, participate more fully in community life, and gain skills to plan, choose, and enjoy social activities. Funded through the Regional Center.
Social Compass is available to people living and receiving support in many different ways. Participation is not limited to a particular living arrangement or service model. We begin with the person, their interests, choices, strengths, and goals, and Social Compass complements the services and supports already in place rather than replacing them.
Everyone’s journey is unique. Our role is to guide and support every step of the way.
For many participants, technology is one of the biggest barriers to staying connected. Social Compass helps participants and their support teams build confidence using digital tools, virtual resources, and community platforms, so accessing social opportunities feels achievable, not overwhelming.