Before coming to Sevita’s host home program, Chase knew it was time to make a change. He had a goal of building healthy relationships and improving his mental and physical health, but he wasn’t getting the support he needed to do so. That’s why he decided to enter Sevita’s program in Iowa.
Everything changed when Chase moved in with his host home provider Laurie. He had instant support and one-on-one direction. He also had a newfound friend in Laurie’s son, who has become like a sibling to him.
“Laurie is like a mom to me,” said Chase. “She cares for me every single day.”
In the home he shares with Laurie and her son, Chase receives daily support and encouragement. He has the motivation he needs to be consistent with his daily living skills and keep healthy habits. Chase keeps a chart that helps him remember his daily and weekly tasks. He has also been working towards more long-term goals, such as making strong friendships and getting involved in community life. Chase also enjoys spending time with the family’s pet cat, Samantha.
Chase develops skills, confidence, and independence
With Laurie’s help, Chase is now thriving. In addition to being healthier, his anxiety has improved and he has become more independent. He is mastering important life skills, such as taking care of his finances, exercising regularly, and much more. Chase has also earned a job at a local restaurant, Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop. He commutes to and from work using the city bus. At work, Chase has bonded with his coworkers and enjoys spending time with them.
Tayler Marion, a Program Services Clinical Coordinator with Sevita, has known Chase since fourth grade, and she was thrilled to work with him.
“We knew each other as classmates all through school and graduated from school together,” said Marion. “I remember the day I saw his name on our referral list and I was very excited to be able to possibly work with him, especially in the host home program. It’s been wonderful to see him thrive!”
Chase is more confident in himself than ever. This confidence allows him to enjoy community life in a way he could not before. He loves meeting up with friends, with whom he plays basketball and Pokémon Go, and he loves to play golf and go bowling through the Special Olympics program. Chase is also an amateur meteorologist, as well as a budding YouTube creator. He loves cooking and has a blast creating his own recipes.
Laurie provides Chase with the care and support he needed to change his life for the better. She believes in him, and she knew that with a supportive home and a loving Mentor, the sky was the limit for Chase.
“Our personalities all go really good together,” said Chase. “I love my life and everyone in it!”