Jody, Bill and Tony were institutionalized as young boys and spent most of their lives institutionalized, most recently living in the Southwest Ohio Developmental Center. It was there the trio learned to control themselves and to make better choices. Because they were perceived as high-need men who were "risky" placements by supported living providers, they stayed even after they were ready to leave. But the three men had a dream.
In August 2005, two other men from the same institution, housemates of the three men, also seen as high-need and risky placements, located a bi-level home in a nice neighborhood. It was Volunteers of America Ohio River Valley that was willing to take a chance on their success. When Jody, Bill and Tony saw their acquaintances’ home and saw the rewards of making good choices, they were inspired to have a place of their own. They were highly motivated to make good choices and demonstrate that they were ready for a chance to live in the community.
Each of the men had jobs already in Clermont County. Two men had worked on a lawn crew for many years and all three wanted to keep their jobs and live in Hamilton County near work and friends. That presented a challenge because one county would be funding the residential component while another would fund the vocational training component.
After weeks of negotiating between the Superintendents of Hamilton County, Clermont County and Southwest Ohio Developmental Center, an agreement was reached about how to arrange the funding and make the men’s dream a reality.
With the funding in place and agreement between the counties, what was once a dream was about to become a reality. When a provider was selected, Volunteers of America Ohio River Valley, the men were involved in finding a home accessible to a man using a walker. After visiting many homes, one was located on a quiet cul-de-sac that met the men’s needs. On October 2, 2006, the men moved into their own home―uplifted and empowered. They continue to receive the necessary support they need to remain successful.