Archives for Success Stories
Jennifer’s Success Story
Being part of our Supported Living program means more than just going through the motions of a daily routine. For people like Jennifer Szedny, support from Jay Nolan staff means having the support to do the things she loves. Jennifer (who goes by “Jennie”) is a very active and busy lady despite her fifty years of age: she enjoys arts and crafts, puzzles, attending painting classes, walking at the park, and going to the YMCA. Moreover, she is a season pass holder at Disneyland and goes there several times a month. Jennie has also been working at her local Marshall’s
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Nick’s Success Story
One look at the smile on Nick Anderson’s face and you get a sense of just how fun loving and personable this young man is. Whether he is talking about his businesses—he has two—his love of the outdoors, his affinity for animals or his obsession with pizza, Nick is a delight. He is also an adult living with autism. Nick’s journey with Jay Nolan Community Services began at age 11 when he began attending JNCS Saturday Program. It was there that he learned about riding public transportation, interacting with community members, and trying new and different things. Later as a
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Miguel’s Success Story
Enthusiastic, creative, funny, loyal, playful and adventurous are just a few words to describe Miguel Acosta. When we first met Miguel he was in his second year of Junior High School. Miguel had been categorized as a challenging individual who required a 1 on 1 at all times due to the various challenges he exhibited. Miguel’s family, with the assistance from the East Los Angeles Regional Center requested support from Jay Nolan Community Services’ (Family Support) Community Facilitator Program in hopes of assisting and supporting Miguel at home and in the community. Miguel’s family wanted to expose him to new
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Rob’s Success Story
Rob Townsend was born in Long Beach California. He grew up in Rancho Palos Verdes with his 3 brothers. Rob has a close relationship with his family and sees them often. Rob came to Jay Nolan Community Services (JNCS) almost 30 years ago. He started out living in our group homes and then into his own apartment when JNCS closed the group homes. Currently, Rob lives in a lovely two story apartment in Van Nuys, California. There he shares his home with a JNCS employee/roommate. Rob has lived with the same roommate for the last 10 years and the two
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John’s Success Story
I knock on the door of a single story duplex in Van Nuys, California, and I am greeted by a tall handsome man in his 30’s wearing a track suit. He welcomes me in and apologizes for his appearance. He is perspiring and seems slightly winded. As I walk into his house I notice a sharp looking treadmill in the corner of his living room. He points it out and says, “Gotta keep the weight off, you know, for the ladies!” and laughs. This is the story of a journey to manhood. This is John’s story. John was born in
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Martin’s Success Story
Known by his close friends as the “Dancing King” or “The Boss,” Martin has been with JNCS for over 17 years. Martin moved to a new apartment in Northridge seven years ago with the help of his staff- or in his words, the “Dream Team”. The best part of living with his roommate Antonio, he says, is that he has his own space and the freedom to do what he likes. Martin is smart and very independent as he navigates the public transportation system daily for most of his transportation needs like getting to work on time. He also has
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Barbara’s Success Stories
One of the most notable success stories from the San Jose branch is Barbara. Barbara has been with us for over 10 years. With assistance from Jay Nolan’s staff, through time she has made many personal changes in her life that have allowed her to take a more proactive role in enhancing her day to day routines and ultimately improving her health and well being. Barbara was born 42 years ago and together with her 2 brothers and 2 sisters lived the first part of her life in San Jose Ca. Tragically, during her high school years, her mother passed
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Ilene’s Success Story
Having been a member of Ilene’s circle of support for over 11 years and she has not only touched my life, but the lives of all those she encounters. I have always been able to see the love she has for everyone around her. When we first met, she came running from another room, landed on the couch next to me, and grabbed my hand. I was instantly overwhelmed by her love and warmth toward others. It took no time for us to become comfortable with each other. She played the piano for me, and shared the adventures and stories
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Gabe’s Success Story
The moment I first laid eyes on Gabe, I knew he was going to change my life. Little did I know that a few years later he would become a very important part of my family, and my life. I met Gabe when he was four years old; he was under the care of Whittier Hospital in Whittier, CA because he was born with numerous health conditions. It was now time for him to attend pre-school, but to do so special arrangements had to be made. I have not left his side since. As his nurse, I assisted Gabe everyday
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Matt’s Success Story
I was lucky enough to meet Matt about 18 months ago, in the Summer of 2009. He was interested in SLS services and unsure as to his options. He seemed incredibly nervous, very serious and full of thoughtful questions. Fast forward to now, Winter of 2010 and Matt and his situation have slightly changed. Matt is presently working part-time at Safeway, he lives in his own 2-bedroom house that he rents, he is a paid, private tennis tutor to children and adults and is a perfect example of what Supported Living can offer to the right person, at the right
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