Meet this month’s member spotlight, Brad. Brad leads an independent life, attends classes, and works at a garage. A member of Southern Tier Connect, Brad works with care coordination manager (CCM) Beth. Beth offers Brad unwavering support whenever he seeks assistance accessing services or subsidies. Read more about Brad below!
Since Brad became eligible with OPWDD in 2012, he has worked hard to develop his overall skills to live on his own. Last year, Brad graduated from Unadilla Valley CSD and was accepted into Transitions, an ARC Lexington post-secondary program in Mayfield. This program supports young adults with autism spectrum disorders and learning differences and offers tracks for college, career, and independent living. Brad’s former care coordination manager, Missy Rathburn, played a significant role in ensuring that Brad could attend Transitions by seeing his application through. Today, care coordination manager Beth Bierstine works with Brad. Despite their brief association, they share a strong bond. Brad is modest about his independence and does not acknowledge or share his accomplishments so readily. With that said, Brad isn’t new to the spotlight. He’s been featured in a local paper for his snowman-building skills and even made the news at the opening of a new Transitions location.
Brad currently resides in an apartment with three housemates, where he relishes the benefits of living independently. The arrangement has given him more space and autonomy to pursue activities he enjoys. Meanwhile, Beth helped Brad secure SSI and is helping him with the process of securing a housing subsidy to cover some of his rent. When Brad isn’t at home, he takes classes at Transitions, including health and wellness, life skills, financing, and more. Brad recently finished his first year at Transitions and attended a career exploration class at Fulton-Montgomery Community College (FMCC). During his time there, he gained valuable insights into the college experience. However, Brad’s true passion lies in his internship with ARC Lexington, where he works as a mechanic in the bus garage. He enjoys working with his hands and loves building and rebuilding things, especially with vehicles. The internship at ARC Lexington gives Brad the perfect platform to share his interests.
With hard work and CCM Beth at his side, Brad is thriving. If you think that independent living is right for you, or if you’re interested in a work placement, talk to your care coordination manager today!