LIFEPlan member, Brady Orr, typically attends Upstate Cerebral Palsy’s Tradewinds School, a supportive environment where he and others learn vocational skills to prepare them for employment and independent living. Due to COVID-19 social distancing guidelines, Brady has been home from school for the past 6 weeks. As with many people diagnosed with Autism, the lack of routine and consistency in his…
Continue ReadingWith all the disruptions that have been created by the COVID-19 pandemic, it can be challenging to find the little things in life that bring us joy. With the closing of many restaurants, theaters and most community attractions we…
Continue ReadingThe outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) has been stressful for many people, especially for people with a developmental disability. Having to cope with managing changes in routine due to thevirus, and the impacts of quarantine and social distancing were creating challenges for one Central New York family. And then they faced another…
Continue ReadingWhen we’re perhaps spending much more time with loved ones while we retreat inward during the COVID-19 crisis, it may be a good time for some important “life conversations.” One of these conversations can be about dating and relationships because…
Continue ReadingJenny Kellogg has proven that she can do anything that she sets her mind to. Jenny worked at Country Valley Industries in Tioga, NY since 2007. In 2013, she took a job working at Walmart in Ithaca. Taking a new…
Continue ReadingCarol is a LIFEPlan member from Binghamton whose dad passed away when she was 4 years old. Among her fondest memories are those of her father behind the lens of his camera. He was an avid photographer and Carol loved…
Continue ReadingFor a long time, Kirk and his father lived together and supported each other. In fact, Kirk was his dad’s primary caregiver, ensuring all his needs were met. When his father passed away Kirk desperately wanted to stay in the…
Continue ReadingKnowing you have a safe and warm place to lay our head at night gives people a great sense of security. Imagine unexpectedly finding yourself without that security. Troy Brown, Mohawk Valley LIFEPlan member, did not have to imagine how…
Continue ReadingA Place Where You Don’t Have to Say “I’m Sorry.” Luis Abramson is always on the lookout for new support opportunities for his son Matthew, who is on the Autism spectrum. Finding an accepting and inviting place to play is…
Continue ReadingShanell is a LIFEPlan member who lived with her mother, who was her caregiver. Not long ago both were hospitalized and had to stay for several months. When they were discharged, Shanell’s mother was not able to care for her,…
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