Transforming Lives: How a Community in White Plains Empowers Adults with Special Needs
In a heartwarming tale of determination and community support, a residential program in White Plains, New York, is empowering adults with special needs to live full and independent lives. Founded in 2008 by families who saw a gap in support for their high-functioning disabled loved ones, the POINT (Pursuing our INdependence Together) community has grown into a thriving haven for individuals who were not yet ready to live without some form of assistance.
For parents like myself, watching our children with special needs transition into adulthood is filled with worries and uncertainties. Once their time in school or development programs ends, a significant support structure crumbles, leaving them without the structured days, regular social interactions, and therapy sessions that were crucial to their growth. Perhaps even more importantly, they lose the sense of belonging to a community outside of their families. This is why the POINT community was designed – to provide the missing pieces and facilitate the building of independent lives.
The choice to establish the community in White Plains was strategic. This small city boasts an array of housing options in a central location, excellent public transportation, and a vibrant retail and business environment that offers various opportunities for work, recreation, and shopping, all within walking distance or accessible by bus or train. The operation and growth of the community are overseen by two nonsectarian human services agencies, ensuring a well-managed and inclusive environment.
When the community first began, 15 members, some local and others from as far away as California and Kentucky, came together to embark on this unique journey. Today, the POINT community proudly houses over 55 members, with a nearly equal ratio of men and women, representing 10 different states. These individuals reside in apartments spread across White Plains, either with roommates or independently. Families cover the cost of the POINT program fee, housing, and food, supplemented by the members’ own earnings and federal and local programs such as SSI/SSD. All participants are encouraged to work, engage in internships, pursue education, or attend day programs. The community facilitates planned social activities while also empowering members to create their own. Additionally, a dedicated clubhouse provides a space for classes, parties, movie nights, and more.
Witnessing the transformation of our son, who once struggled with limited social skills, significant learning disabilities, and a lack of interest in independent tasks, is nothing short of remarkable. Today, he lives a life beyond our wildest dreams. He is independent, manages his own calendar, seeks out suitable recreational activities, works, and most importantly, is a valued member of a small, welcoming community that actively engages with the surrounding neighborhood.
So, how did we reach this point? As parents, we’ve learned valuable lessons along the way:
1. Embrace structured support: Creating an environment that replicates the structure lost after leaving school is paramount. Scheduled voluntary activities, social workers for support, and a 24/7 emergency phone line provide the necessary safety net.
2. Foster peer connection: Establishing a community where individuals can build relationships with peers who share similar experiences and aspirations is vital. These connections serve as the foundation for developing independent lives.
3. Choose the ideal location: Finding a city with accessible amenities, transportation options, and a thriving social and business scene significantly enhances opportunities for work, recreation, and social engagement.
4. Collaborate with experts: Partnering with nonsectarian human services agencies ensures the community receives professional management and guidance for optimal growth and support.
5. Encourage participation in society: Allowing individuals to contribute meaningfully through work, internships, education, or day programs not only develops skills but also fosters a sense of purpose and belonging.
The success of the POINT community proves that with the right support, individuals with special needs can thrive and lead fulfilling lives. It is through the dedication of families, the commitment of staff, and the unwavering belief in the potential of every individual that this transformation becomes possible. As more communities adopt this model, the lives of countless adults with special needs can be positively impacted, giving them the chance to realize their dreams and be active members of society.
