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Admission Process

What to Expect as We Walk Through the Process Together

Couple hugging at a bowling alley, smiling at the camera.
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Starting something new can feel like a big step—and it’s okay if you’re not sure exactly where to begin. At Open Door Columbus, you don’t have to figure it out alone. We’ll guide you through each part of the process, helping you explore options, ask questions, and move forward in a way that feels right for you.

Whether you’re reaching out for yourself or supporting someone else, our goal is to make this experience feel clear, supportive, and centered around what matters most to you. We’ll take the time to understand what you’re looking for, talk through what’s possible, and help you navigate each step at a pace that feels comfortable. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about our services, connect with our team, and get a better sense of what a good fit might look like.

Let’s Start Your Journey

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Step 1: Begin the Conversation

The first step is simply reaching out—whatever that looks like for you.

You can contact our team directly, or connect through someone supporting you, such as a parent, guardian, advocate, or Service Coordinator. From there, we’ll make sure you’re matched with the right person based on what you’re exploring and help guide you forward.

We’ve made it easy to get started—you can find the right contact for each service area below.

Man smiling in front of Panda Express restaurant in a mall
Man smiling in front of Panda Express restaurant in a mall

Step 1: Begin the Conversation

The first step is simply reaching out—whatever that looks like for you.

You can contact our team directly, or connect through someone supporting you, such as a parent, guardian, advocate, or Service Coordinator. From there, we’ll make sure you’re matched with the right person based on what you’re exploring and help guide you forward.

We’ve made it easy to get started—you can find the right contact for each service area below.

Adult Day Programs

Interested in learning more about Adult Day Programs? Fill out this short form, and we’ll be in touch to schedule a tour.
ADS Interest Form

Remote Support Services

Interested in learning more about AT and RSS? Fill out this short form and we’ll be in touch to talk through next steps.
AT/RSS Interest Form

Intermediate Care Facilities

Lindsey DeCarlo
Program Director
ldecarlo@opendoorcolumbus.org
(614) 641-2900 x 3248

Supported Community Living

Gretchen VanNatta
Social Services Director
gvannatta@opendoorcolumbus.org
(614) 641-2900 x 3269

Young girl in a wheelchair smiling, with hands on her cheeks

Step 2: Explore & Get to Know Each Other

Once we connect, we’ll schedule a time to talk more—this may be a conversation, a tour, or both.

This step is all about getting to know you—your goals, your interests, and what meaningful support looks like in your everyday life. It’s also a chance for you to learn more about our services, ask questions, and get a feel for what a good fit might look like.

Together, we’ll explore what options feel right and begin shaping what support could look like moving forward.

Step 3: Intake & Getting Started

If it feels like a good fit, we’ll move into the intake process and begin planning next steps.

We’ll work with you to finalize details, coordinate with your team if needed, and establish a timeline that feels comfortable and clear. Our team will stay connected throughout—making sure you feel supported, informed, and confident as you move toward your start date.

Two people sitting on a bench outside, one wearing a pink shirt with cows, the other a Michigan football shirt.
Two people sitting on a bench outside, one wearing a pink shirt with cows, the other a Michigan football shirt.

Step 3: Intake & Getting Started

If it feels like a good fit, we’ll move into the intake process and begin planning next steps.

We’ll work with you to finalize details, coordinate with your team if needed, and establish a timeline that feels comfortable and clear. Our team will stay connected throughout—making sure you feel supported, informed, and confident as you move toward your start date.

Ready to Get Started?

Reaching out is the first step—and we’re here when you’re ready.

Have questions about admission?

Send us a quick message—we’re here to help you figure out what comes next.

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