Sean is an eager-to-please, funny and caring person who loves connecting with others. For the past four and a half years, he’s been part of the Kaleidoscope community – bowling with the group, chatting with staff and enjoying every opportunity to be social. He’s a big fan of movies and TV, and he treasures time spent with family and friends. But above all, the thing Sean is most proud of in the world is his dog.
When asked about his favorite parts of Kaleidoscope, Sean immediately mentions adaptive gaming, volunteering at the SPCA, and going on outings – like trips to The MADE (Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment). He hopes to find a job and looks forward to learning employment skills with his Kaleidoscope group to help him do just that. But for his mom, Holly, the most meaningful part of Kaleidoscope goes much deeper.
Sean joined Kaleidoscope right after high school. Like it was for many people with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD), that time was filled with challenges. He was “surviving.” “Always on the outside looking in,” Holly shares.
So the change to Kaleidoscope was a big one indeed. “Here, he feels equal and valued. He now enjoys no stress. He feels comfortable.”
The difference, she says, has been life-changing not only for Sean, but for their whole family. “Feeling like a valued member of society makes him a better person,” Holly adds, “that benefits us all here at home.”
For Holly, the impact is felt in everyday peace of mind. “I can spend those 4.5 hours not worrying. Not thinking is he ok? To have those hours and to not hold on to that (worry and fear) after 18 years, is huge.”
After a recent family event that the Kaleidoscope group hosted, Holly recalled how it was “all about community.” She recounted being able to connect with other families and see Sean interacting with all of his friends and staff. “My heart was just so full,” she said.
