One question has haunted me and challenged me since 2005 when I saw firsthand the lives of older kids in an orphanage and realized that improved care and declining mortality rates did not mean happily ever after. Along with a determination to DO SOMETHING came a glimmer of a vision of what it would take to change their story.
familyA place to live A place to be loved A place to learn how to live successfully with others. |
Live in a small group home with caring, well-trained adults who are guiding you safely into adulthood.
Learn to take care of yourself, manage a home, shop and cook, do laundry and wash dishes, ride the bus, use the ATM, and go to the movies. Be responsible, manage your time, make decisions. Learn to fight fair, give in graciously, forgive generously and love others while loving yourself. |
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Communication -- obtain the tools to speak, whether orally, through sign language or using technology.
Basic reading, writing and math -- so you can read a newspaper, open a bank account, sign your name. Technology competency -- use the internet safely, communicate with friends, find needed information. Vocational awareness and training -- find out about jobs and careers so you can decide for yourself what you want to be when you grow up, and then gain the skills to do it. |
educationExplore your interests Try new things Find your voice |
integrationLive as independently as possible Be accepted in your community |
Work in a company that believes in you and will help you be successful with training, coaching, an onsite mentor, adaptations if necessary, and lots of encouragement.
Live in a supported home environment where you can use all those good skills you have learned but also have someone who will check on you and be there if you need help. |
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I realize that this dream isn't for everyone. Of the nearly 60 young people that I work with, only about a dozen are likely to ever live independently. The rest will always need some level of day-to-day support due to significant disabilities, whether physically, emotionally or cognitively. But I have come to realize that the essence of the dream is the same -- for every person to reach his or her potential and live a happy, purposeful life.
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