For Sean and his family, finding Community Living was more than discovering a program. It was finding peace of mind, support, and a community that truly understands their son Alex.

“We first learned about Community Living through our case worker, and it didn’t take long for us to see how special the SOAR program was,” Sean shared. With both parents working full time, afternoons were a challenge. “My wife and I both work full time, so it’s always been tough making sure our son Alex is not only safe after school but also engaged and happy until we can get home. SOAR has been an incredible solution: convenient, consistent, and staffed by some of the most compassionate people we’ve ever met.”

The SOAR program has made a big impact on their daily life. “SOAR has honestly made a huge difference in our day-to-day life. Knowing Alex is picked up from school and cared for until 6 PM gives us the space we need to work full days and even run errands if needed. Without that, I don’t know how we’d make it all work. It’s not just helpful. It’s essential for us.”

Even though Alex is nonverbal, his family never doubts how much he enjoys being there. “He always lights up when I pick him up, and that tells us everything we need to know. He especially loves walking around the school and being part of any activity they do there.” Sean also gave a shout out to the staff for the comfort and confidence he feels every day. “One of the people who’s had the biggest impact on us is Maddie R. She’s been his primary caregiver outside of SOAR, and she’s been a huge blessing to our whole family. Knowing she’s there with him, whether it’s during SOAR or summer camp, gives us an incredible amount of peace. She’s kind, reliable, responsible, just the type of person every parent hopes is watching over their kid.”

And it isn’t just Maddie. “Nearly every time I pick up Alex, I’m greeted by someone with a big smile and a quick update on his day. Even if I don’t know the staff member personally, they’re always upbeat and clearly love what they do. That kind of positive environment is rare, and it’s something we don’t take for granted.”

Now, as Alex prepares to transition from SOAR to the Support Services for Adults program, the family is hopeful. “Our biggest hope is that the level of care and support he’s received continues. SOAR and summer camp have set a high bar, and if the next step can offer anything close to the same experience, we’ll be in great hands.”

Sean didn’t hesitate when reflecting on the bigger picture. “To be honest, we’d be lost without Community Living. The time SOAR saves us and the confidence we have knowing Alex is in good hands, safe, cared for, and having fun, is what lets us focus on everything else in life without worrying constantly.”

We’re grateful for families like Sean’s and for supporters who make these moments possible every day. As we close out another year, stories like Alex’s remind us why Community Living exists: to provide individualized opportunities for people with disabilities to live their best lives!