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The Laura Dester
Children’s Center

The Laura Dester Children’s Center’s (LDCC) is an Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) and residential program for children and youth with Intellectual Disabilities (IDD). Their mission is to provide and maintain a safe, temporary placement for young people with intellectual disabilities and significant behavioral support needs (sometimes with a co-occurring mental health issue). The program provides experienced clinical and direct care personnel who apply proven treatment and positive behavioral strategies to help clients gain the skills and awareness to thrive and be more successful in inclusive community settings.

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Our Facilities

The complex includes three residential-style cottages, a school/rec center, an administration building, gym, outdoor basketball court and playground. Recreation areas are developmentally appropriate for each age group and indoor common areas provide space for engaging activities. Residents attend school on and off-site; they ride scooters, bikes, go on outings including sporting events, hiking, horseback riding, the Gathering Place, waterparks, and other community engagement activities. Team members supervise and care for the residents 365 days a year, seven days a week, 24 hours a day.

LDCC Services

Pre-placement training in effective behavior maintenance practices is provided to families, foster families, and/or the staff of the new community-based setting. Successful reintegration is LDCC’s priority.
 
LDCC provides pre and post placement provider training and when requested by CWS, on-site consultation and assistance. Recommendations for interventions and additional supports for the child or adolescent and/or their families are available to support their success in the community.
 
The goal of the LDCC is to create a sense of stability for each young person, offer them freedoms and normalcy to best prepare them for their next community setting. The child first approach and care in service of vulnerable youth is at the core of the center’s storied reputation. 
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Hands of Heartland

Hands of Heartland is honored to manage the Laura Dester Children’s Center for the state of Oklahoma. All entities have a clear vision and strong history working with and serving the IDD communities. Hands of Heartland has been supporting people with developmental disabilities since 1998 and their person-first philosophy and services are designed to promote independence and community integration. Their core values include integrity, transparency, and respect. Individuals with varying levels of mental, physical, and behavioral needs all have a place at Hands of Heartland.