SUCCESS STORIES

 In creating this web page, we at the H.O.M.E.S Team thought that it would be nice to let our members tell us about their experiences while being members.  We received some of the following responses: 

“Being associated with HOMES Team has profoundly affected my life in a positive manner.  Five years ago my life had no focus, no structure and very little support. I was living as a recluse in a one bedroom apartment, going out only to buy food---and that, at night when I was least likely to meet any other people. I was afraid to go out---really agoraphobic.  

 Through working towards various goals with HOMES Team over these 4 years, I have gradually come to a situation where I am comfortable sharing an apartment with a roommate, have a social life (girlfriend, bowling league, etc.), am able to use public transportation and now I have a part-time job.  In short, I now have focus and structure, have come to know a growing degree of confidence, and feel much better about myself.”

                                                                           Howard - Member since June ‘98

“Before I started working with my rehab specialist I had certain reservations about doing certain things, especially grocery shopping.  I suffer from OCD which puts me in a frame of mind where, if I see something I might want to buy it, even if I don’t need it.  Since I’ve been working with the HOMES Team I feel more comfortable in grocery stores.  My rehab plan has helped me to make lists and only buy what I need when at the store.

 Also, I have been having a good time on trips socializing with other members.  It is nice to go and talk with a diverse group of people, some who I have a lot in common with.”

                                                                              Steve - Member since June ‘02

“I’ve found that the assistance I get from the HOMES Team with grocery shopping has been very helpful.  Also, the camping trips have helped me to learn to prepare for several days away from my home.  This has helped me learn to get my medication together for a few days and to get clothes and other things ready as well.”

                                                            Cindy - Member since October ‘00

“Right after I became a member of the HOMES Team I was encouraged to sign up for a HOMES Team activity.  We went on a trip to Valley Green for a picnic lunch.  We ate hoagies and went for a hike.  Here I met a lot of the other members who I did not know yet.  Everybody seemed to enjoy my company, which made me feel that they were my friends.  The activities director spent a lot of time talking to me and making me feel comfortable.  We drove all over the county to drop people off.  It was a nice ride on a beautiful sunny day.  Before dropping me off, the activities coordinator told me that I did a good job on the trip and that he would like me to come on more.  Since then I have enjoyed many HOMES Team activities.

                                                                             Faith - Member since May ‘95

“You’re the only people who come out to help me and work together with me on things.”

 “Camping trips are good.”

                                                                     Mike - Member since December ‘96