44-year old Vince is someone who has struggled for, and ultimately achieved, a self-directed, fully supported life. He spent many years in foster care or group homes, but, with help from our Supported Living Services, he is a resident of the Lithia Place apartments, where he shares a two-bedroom apartment with a roommate. Vince has solid relationships with his neighbors, who value his sense of humor and fun-loving spirit. He enjoys community barbecues, and attends hockey games with friends and support staff. He is a valued member of the baseball, track and bowling teams at Special Olympics. His part-time job with RCC Facility Operations doing grounds maintenance keeps him busy, but never interferes with his activities at the Jerusalem Center and Joy Christian Fellowship, where his inclination to make “a loud and joyful noise unto the Lord” is embraced. Vince particularly enjoys honoring his Native American heritage by attending powwows, participating with enthusiasm in open dance and singing groups. Staffer Laura Whelan, who accompanied him to the annual Ute powwow in Utah, states that the “powwows are very emotionally soothing for Vince. The dancers dedicate dances to him. He feels comfortable and fits in—it’s where he is accepted and has a sense of belonging.”
