What happens when two people—both navigating life’s toughest challenges—find not just stability, but purpose, community, and joy under one roof?
This is the story of Michael, a Special Olympics athlete with an unstoppable spirit, and his roommate—a retired U.S. Army veteran—who refused to give up. Not on life. Not on himself. And not on someone who deserved a second chance.
And it all came together through Homies Roommate Matching—a new model for shared living that pairs adults with disabilities with supportive, aligned roommates ready to build a life together.
🇺🇸 A Veteran Finds a New Mission
After nearly a decade of service with the 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, Michael’s roommate came home medically retired. Partial paralysis. A small VA pension. Bills that never stopped growing. Most months, he was just trying to keep the lights on—groceries, gas, rent—it all felt like a fight.
But he kept showing up. And it was at the gym—his first job in over a decade—where he met Michael.
💪 Gold Medals, Grit, and a Whole Lot of Heart
Michael had a dream: to compete—and win—in the Special Olympics. But the road wasn’t easy. State-appointed caregivers came and went. Some didn’t show up. Others made him feel small. But Michael never stopped moving forward. Day after day, he trained. And in just two seasons, he brought home over 20 gold medals.
Still, something was missing: a home where he felt safe, respected, and seen.
🏠 How Homies Roommate Matching Changed Everything
When Michael said he was ready for a fresh start, his veteran friend was also looking for stable, affordable housing. That’s when they discovered Homies Roommate Matching—a program that connects people with disabilities to purpose-driven roommates who bring both practical support and genuine connection.
With guidance from the Homies team, they made the leap. They transitioned into a shared living home in Oceanside, California. A few months later, their world looked completely different.
Michael now lives in a peaceful neighborhood, in a home filled with warmth and stability. He returned to work at the store he’s been with for over 20 years—this time as a general manager, clocking full-time hours with pride. He’s beaming with confidence. Training for another Special Olympics season. And for the first time, he feels home.
🤝 More Than Roommates—A Chosen Family
Thanks to Homies Roommate Matching, Michael and his roommate built something far deeper than a housing solution—they built a bond that feels like family.
“Michael has been a godsend. And I know I’m the same for him. We get to face this journey together now and thrive every step of the way.”
They cook. They laugh. They train. They game. Weekends are packed with arts, crafts, and movie marathons. For the first time in years, they’re even planning a vacation together.
This isn’t just a living situation.
It’s a life filled with dignity, connection, and the kind of growth that only comes when people feel like they truly belong.
💙 This Is What Homies Roommate Matching Is All About
At Homies, we believe everyone deserves the chance to live independently—with the right support, deep human connection, and a home that feels like home.
Michael’s story is more than inspiring. It’s a proof point.
A real-world example of how Homies Roommate Matching helps people with disabilities thrive alongside roommates who care, show up, and grow together.
Curious how it works?
Learn more about How Shared Living Works at Homies and why our roommate matching model is transforming lives every day.
Lead with love. Build with precision. Move with urgency.