DIXFIELD — When Sandra Hebert couldn’t find the right program to fit the needs of her intellectually disabled son, Christopher, she decided to launch her own business that would not only meet his needs, but the needs of others.

The Emma R Foundation, named for Hebert’s mother, was born about five years ago.

On Tuesday, the 10 clients in the program, along with family, friends, case managers and community members socialized at a cookout at the foundation’s 3-acre site on the Common Road.

“It was their idea following an invitation by local state representatives to visit the State House,”  Hebert said.

One of the goals of Hebert’s program is for the clients to choose their activities. Among those served are people with Asperger’s syndrome, autism, intellectual disabilities, mental health issues, or a combination of two or more difficulties.

The slogan of the day program, “We cultivate growth,” can be seen, literally, at the side and rear of the main building. Clients have planted and cared for a community garden that includes bright orange pumpkins, juicy corn and a variety of other vegetables. The two scarecrows were also created by clients.

Some program participants ride horses once a week at a ring in Augusta. Three of them will compete in the Equestrian Special Olympics in October at the Skowhegan Fairgrounds, said Linda Thomas, a direct care professional at the Emma R Foundation.

“We want them to do stuff that helps them grow. We let them pick their own activities,” she said.

Helping clients to meet their potential is a major goal of the program.

“When they do something on their own, there’s tremendous growth. Just give them a chance,” she said. “I love my job. I’m paid to have fun. I help people put a smile on their faces.”

Hebert said the 10 clients receive habilitation and community support services each morning, five days a week, then go to their chosen activities in the afternoons. Besides horseback riding, some have visited the fitness center at the University of Maine at Farmington and volunteered at the Good Shepherd Food-Bank in Lewiston.

Some also work at various part-time jobs in the area, said Kelly Walton, program manager.

“I love what we do with them. It enables clients to be independent and successful,” she said.

In addition to the 10 day-clients, the Emma R Foundation also provides private and respite care for five other people in their homes.

“All our activities are to promote the physical and emotional health of our clients,” Hebert said. “We’re very family-oriented.”

For clients Greg Myles, Patty Kidder and Harold Brown, Tuesday’s cookout was lots of fun. They helped prepare the lunch. They had also helped with the garden during the past few months.

“We had a good time,” Myles said.

For Hebert, the work done at the site is very fulfilling.

“It’s my mission. I love it. It makes me happy to see the smiles on their faces,” she said.

The day program is supported by the Department of Health and Human Services. The foundation employs seven people.

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