friends together
how to apply
A Thoughtful Process for Planning Ahead
Friends Together is currently in development, with its permanent site in Hyannis planned to open in 2027. Program design, licensing applications, and operational planning are actively underway.
Our application and enrollment process is designed not only to prepare Friends Together for launch, but also to help individuals and families plan proactively for the future. Early engagement allows applicants to learn about the community, understand how Friends Together may fit into their adult life plans, and make informed decisions as they look ahead beyond school.
getting started with friends together
Step 1
The interest form is the first step in getting started. It allows us to learn more about you, understand what you’re exploring (Day Program, Social & Recreational Program, or both), and stay connected as planning continues.
Submitting an interest form positions individuals and families to engage more closely with the Friends Together team as the program moves toward launch.
Step 2
Individuals who submit an interest form will be invited to attend a Friends Together Information Session when sessions are available.
These sessions will provide:
- A detailed overview of the Friends Together community and its programs
- An explanation of program structure, scheduling, and participation options
- An overview of funding pathways and anticipated timelines
- A clear picture of the path from early interest to program launch
Information Sessions may be offered virtually or in person.
Because Information Sessions will be kept intentionally small, invitations will be prioritized at this time for individuals interested in joining Friends Together at the anticipated 2027 opening. Individuals exploring participation in future years are still encouraged to submit an interest form so that we can stay in touch and better understand long-term interest as the program grows.
Step 3
Following participation in an Information Session, individuals will be invited to submit a Full Application.
The Full Application allows us to learn more about:
- Interests, goals, and priorities for adult life
- Preferred ways of participating in the Friends Together community
- Information that helps us plan supports and participation thoughtfully
This step helps both applicants and the Friends Together team move forward with shared understanding as planning continues.
Step 4
As part of the review process, some applicants may be invited to participate in a Getting to Know You process with the Friends Together team. This may include a meeting with the individual and members of their chosen circle of support, and may also include time spent together in a Friends Together setting.
The purpose of this meeting is to:
- Get to know the person more fully
- Learn about strengths, interests, and aspirations
- Discuss preferences around participation and supports
- Offer an opportunity to experience Friends Together through shared activities or programming, when appropriate
- Ensure that Friends Together can support a positive and successful experience
For some applicants, participation in existing Friends Together pilot activities or alumni programming may already provide this opportunity and may fulfill this part of the process.
This step helps ensure that participation is thoughtfully planned and aligned with what Friends Together is designed to offer.
Step 5
For individuals moving forward, the Friends Together team will work collaboratively with participants and families to:
- Plan for a successful start as the program approaches launch
- Confirm program participation (Day Program, Social & Recreational Program, or both)
- Review funding pathways, including MassHealth, DDS, and private pay options
- Complete required documentation
As part of the Full Application and planning process, Friends Together may request the following documents, if applicable:
- A current physical evaluation
- The most recent neuropsychological evaluation
- A current IEP or ISP, whichever is in effect
These materials help us understand background, strengths, and support considerations as we prepare for the program’s launch.
Notice of Privacy Practices
As part of the application process, applicants will be asked to review and acknowledge receipt of Friends Together’s Notice of Privacy Practices.
This Notice explains how Friends Together may receive, maintain, and protect health information that applicants and families choose to share during the planning and admissions process, as well as the rights individuals have under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Acknowledging receipt of this Notice does not authorize any specific use or disclosure of health information.
A Note on Timing & Development
Friends Together is actively working through program development and licensing. While the community is not yet open, early interest and applications play an important role in shaping planning, staffing, and program readiness in advance of the 2027 opening.
Questions?
If you have questions about the process or are unsure where to begin, we encourage you to reach out to the Friends Together team by emailing friendstogether@riverviewschool.org.