13 Oct Vision of Hope, Inc.

Posted at 20:53h in 2024, Health & Wellness, Nonprofit, Vision of Hope, Inc. by

Vision of hope, inc.

Journeying to Independence

Grant Year: 2024 | Focus Area: Health & Wellness | Grant Amount: $100,670 | Grant Status: In progress

Vision of Hope has been empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 2009. Founded by Jane Simmons, an educator with over two decades of experience in Special Education, Vision of Hope understands the unique challenges faced by these individuals as they transition from high school to adulthood. After graduation, many become socially isolated leading to feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Often, they do not work or receive community services through state-supported programs. Vision of Hope was born out of a commitment to equip those with intellectual and developmental disabilities with the necessary skills, resources, and support networks needed to lead fulfilling and independent lives. The organization offers an affordable transition program to prepare young adults with disabilities to live, work, and fully participate in the community. Those who go through Vision of Hope life skills and job training programs gain a sense of satisfaction and independence.

OVERVIEW OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT

Journeying to Independence will provide a 15-passenger van to transport participants to community-based learning (CBL) activities. IMPACT 100 funds will be used to purchase, insure, and maintain the van, and to purchase a prefabricated garage to protect it. Those who will be transported using the new van are adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As a population, these individuals are more isolated than their neurotypical counterparts, and they are often marginalized which increases their likelihood of developing loneliness, depression, anxiety, other mental health problems and even physical health challenges. The ability to safely take clients into the community will challenge and inspire them to live more independent lives. One trip can change a depressed and lonely life into a hopeful and exciting one and may inspire a person onto a journey toward independence. By having a reliable van to go into the community, Vision of Hope will increase CBL opportunities and reinforce classroom learning giving these adults more chances to apply what they have learned and further develop self-esteem.

EXPECTED IMPACT ON THE COMMUNITY

Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are often the most under-served, under-represented, and misunderstood individuals in our community. Young adults who participate in day programs with CBL yield much greater overall success through engagement within the community as they witness and learn the positive behaviors needed to succeed in work and life. CBL educates the whole person, challenging them to respond to new situations in appropriate ways. It could be something as simple as ordering french fries, or as challenging as ensuring they received the correct change. In the greater community, which includes the organization’s summer camps, participants will be able to shadow and explore jobs, plus enjoy new life experiences such as going to a ball game. Adequate, safe, and reliable transportation is not a convenience for these individuals, rather, it is an opportunity for them to grow as individuals by creating an atmosphere where each one can reach their full potential and participate in the community.

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