On My Own of Michigan Supports Down Syndrome Awareness Month

TROY, Mich. - Oct. 22, 2015 - PRLog -- October 25, 2015 – Troy, MI - According to the National Down Syndrome Society (ndss.org), “All people with Down Syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses.”

Many years ago, Kristin’s parents never thought their daughter would be living independently and be surrounded by friends.  Kristin was born with Down Syndrome.  However, when Kristin was 27 and had aged out of the post-secondary program at her high school, her parents were looking for something more.  They found On My Own of Michigan.

On My Own of Michigan (OMO) was developed 18 years ago by concerned parents who wanted to encourage and enhance the socialization and independent living dreams of their adult children with intellectual developmental disabilities (I/DD).

When Kristin first joined OMO, she participated in the Social Program where she quickly made friends and learned important daily living skills.  She moved into her own apartment 17 years ago.  Kristin and her roommate host a Craft Club weekly for their friends to come over and work on their crafts, have a snack and chat.  She has ridden the bus to work for the past 10 years where she was a Dining Room Ambassador at Burger King.  Kristin lives a full life independently, yet she need some support which she receives from On My Own of Michigan (and her family).  Her Supports Coordinator helps her with budgeting, money management, healthy eating, and conflict resolution.

Kristin’s mother says “OMO is a perfect fit for Kristin!  She is able to have friends with whom she can easily interact. The location for the apartments couldn't be better for proximity to a fine shopping area and to our home.”  Her mother continues “We also like that Kristin is integrated in the apartment complex, not living in one building with (only) OMO members.  Diversity is great!   Kristin is extremely fortunate to have this opportunity and by association, her family.”

On My Own of Michigan, Inc. is a unique organization serving adults with intellectual developmental disabilities.  “We work with our members helping them to learn the skills to live independently, build lasting friendships and become active, contributing members   of the community.” said Bruce Benson, Executive Director of On My Own.  Bruce continues “We strive to assist each member to achieve their optimal level of functioning in independent living; in the workplace; with their family and friends; and within their community.”  The National Down Syndrome Society agrees as they state, “Quality educational programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and positive support from family, friends and the community enable people with Down Syndrome to develop their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.”

About On My Own of Michigan

On My Own of Michigan, Inc. assists adults with mild intellectual developmental disabilities (I/DD) become independent, social and contributing members of the community.  We believe individuals living with intellectual developmental disabilities have the right to choose where they work, live, play and worship. And, when given the opportunity, experience and appropriate supports, they can become active members of the community.

For additional information, visit https://onmyownofmi.org or call (248) 649-3739.

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Media Contact:

Lesley Scharfenberg

On My Own of Michigan

Marketing and Fundraising Manager

(248) 649-3739, ext. 221

lesley@onmyownofmi.org