Who We Are
Vision
To achieve recognition as the human service agency of choice in providing residential and support services to people in the Greater Central New Jersey community.
Mission
Alternatives provides comprehensive services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, those with mental health diagnoses, as well as individuals and families experiencing homelessness, to enable them to reach their highest level of independence an integration in the community.
Values
Alternatives values the individuality of each person served and believes that everyone has the right to self-determination. This includes making decisions and life choices related to overall wellbeing, relationships, employment, community integration, and more. The agency also values a flexible, person-centered philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of diversity, cultural considerations and personal goals throughout the process of providing individualized services.
2026-2030
OUR STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK
Over the next five years, Alternatives will strengthen its foundation and expand its impact through five strategic pillars. These pillars guide how we grow, invest in our people, enhance quality of care, and deepen community trust—ensuring that every client we serve has the opportunity to thrive.
1 | Funding & Growth
We will strengthen and diversify our financial base to sustain long-term growth and stability. By expanding partnerships, cultivating philanthropic support, and advancing mission-aligned opportunities, we’ll build the resources needed to reach more people and deepen our impact.
2 | People & Talent
We will invest in our team—the heart of Alternatives—by fostering engagement, belonging, and professional growth. Through equitable hiring, development, and leadership opportunities, we’ll create a workplace where people choose to grow their careers and their purpose.
3 | Client Services & Empowering Lives
We will continue to expand and enhance person-centered programs that empower individuals to live full, meaningful lives. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and compassion will drive new approaches to meeting the diverse and evolving needs of those we serve.
4 | Public Awareness & Voice
We will raise Alternatives’ visibility across New Jersey, sharing authentic stories that highlight the dignity, inclusion, and resilience of the people we support. Through compelling storytelling and partnerships, we’ll strengthen understanding, trust, and engagement.
5 | Organizational Efficiencies
We will streamline systems and processes so our teams can focus on what matters most—exceptional client care. By improving collaboration, accountability, and the use of technology, we’ll ensure our operations are as strong and reliable as our mission.
Together, these five pillars form the foundation for Alternatives’ next chapter—building a stronger, more connected organization that empowers lives and strengthens communities.
Quality Indicators
Internal Audits Provided in FY25
Service Provision Audits – total of 1,319
DD Residential Client Survey
54% Response Rate
Top Strengths:
- Are you receiving the support you would like to receive during doctor visits or medical appointments? – 96%
- Do you like the activities and places you go in the community? – 95%
- Are you receiving the support you would like to receive at home or in the community? – 93%
COS Client Survey ('24-'25)
22% Response Rate
Top Strengths:
- I feel respected and listened to by staff. – 94%
- I feel the staff is friendly and helpful. – 94%
- I feel my information is kept confidential. – 94%
Support Coordination Client Survey
19% Response Rate
Top Strengths:
- My Support Coordinator treats me with respect. – 96%
- I feel comfortable talking with my Support Coordinator. – 96%
- My Support Coordinator takes my background (culture, religious beliefs, language) into account when planning and finding supports. – 96%
- While another Support Coordinator or Support Coordinator Supervisor was covering my case, my needs were met. – 96%
AIM Client Survey
35% Response Rate
Top Strengths:
- Do you like activities at Day Program? – 100%
- Do you like the activities when you go out in the community? – 94%
- Do Staff treat you well? – 94%
DD Family Guardian Survey
25% Response Rate
Top Strengths:
- The Program Manager/Coordinator is accessible to me.
- 56% Strongly Agree; 38% Agree
- My interactions with the Program Staff are helpful and professional.
- 38% Strongly Agree; 58% Agree
- I am satisfied with the quality of the service that Alternatives provides.
- 41% Strongly Agree; 47% Agree
- Staff respects the culture, religious beliefs, family traditions and language of the person for which I am guardian.
- 47% Strongly Agree; 41% Agree
Staff Survey
28% Response Rate
Top Strengths:
- 98% of staff find their work to be meaningful.
- 98% of staff know how to reach IT for technical assistance.
- 98% of staff feel other staff in the agency respect their culture.
- 97% of staff prefer web-based trainings.
- 96% of staff know the mission and vision of Alternatives.
- 95% of staff have a good work environment in their program/department.
- 94% of staff know Alternatives ethical standards and Code of Conduct.
- 93% of staff are overall satisfied with their employment.
- 92% of staff feel they work well together with their co-workers.
- 92% of staff feel their supervisory team contributes to a positive work environment
Our History
How Are We Doing?
Your Feedback Is Important to Us
Because we believe each individual we serve deserves the highest level of service, Alternatives, Inc. wants to hear from you! If you would like to tell us about a member of staff who has gone above and beyond, or tell us how we can improve the services and supports we provide, please contact your local program staff and share your thoughts. If you prefer, you may also contact someone in our Department of Quality Assurance and Corporate Compliance.
Alternatives, Inc. promotes ethical practices within the organization in accordance with our Code of Conduct and the laws and regulations governing the communities in which we serve. All stakeholders, including family members, governing agencies, referral sources, employees, advocates and persons served are asked to report compliance and regulatory concerns to program management, or to the
Department of Quality Assurance and Corporate Compliance.
If this is not possible, any individual who suspects misconduct or unethical behavior is urged to call the confidential Compliance Hotline at (908) 685-1444 ext. 600.
The Hotline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
View Our
Annual Report
