At Homies, our mission is to empower neurodiverse individuals to achieve independent living on their terms. Santiago’s story is a testament to how personalized support can transform lives and enable true independence.
The Challenge of Independent Living: Santiago’s Early Struggles
Santiago has been receiving disability services since the age of three. Despite years of support, he felt these services were not helping him achieve his goal of independent living. He wanted more control over his life, including the ability to make his own decisions, pursue meaningful work, and advocate for others like him. However, the programs he was part of didn’t foster this independence, leaving him feeling limited and unsure of how to move forward.
A New Path with Homies
Joining the Homies family marked the beginning of Santiago’s journey towards independent living. Homies provided the resources and guidance he needed to explore his passions and build a life on his own terms. Santiago began to engage in activities that brought him joy, such as attending concerts, going to the beach, and maintaining a diet that suited him. He also took a significant step towards independence by enrolling in an undergraduate psychology program and securing a job as a waiter at a senior care facility.
Milestones in Independent Living: Santiago’s Successes
One of Santiago’s most significant milestones in his independent living journey was taking his first solo flight to Sacramento. This experience was not just a personal achievement but also a powerful demonstration of his growing confidence and independence. In Sacramento, Santiago shared his story with over 50 people, receiving a standing ovation. His ability to advocate for himself and others like him highlighted the impact that independent living has had on his life.
The Importance of Independent Living
Santiago’s journey with Homies underscores the critical importance of independent living for neurodiverse individuals. Independent living is about more than just having a place of your own; it’s about having the freedom to make choices, pursue your goals, and live life on your terms. For many, this can be challenging due to systemic barriers and a lack of tailored support. However, with the right resources and guidance, individuals like Santiago can achieve the independence they deserve.
How Homies Facilitates Independent Living
At Homies, we are committed to supporting the independent living goals of our clients. Our approach is centered around providing customized support that aligns with each individual’s unique needs and aspirations. We help our clients navigate daily living activities, pursue educational and professional opportunities, and build the confidence needed to live independently. Whether it’s through personalized coaching, community integration, or skill-building activities, Homies is dedicated to fostering an environment where independent living is not just a possibility but a reality.
For more information on how Homies supports independent living and helps individuals like Santiago achieve their goals, visit Homies and learn about our services.
