Proud of Their Independence
Ron enjoys cutting the grass and loves the Kansas City Chiefs. Chris has a collection of WWE wrestling memorabilia and is passionate about the West Allegheny Indians – which is his alma mater. Ron finds bargains at Five Below. Chis, a fan of ghost hunting, walks the Montour trail conducting his own paranormal activity investigations.
But it’s what these two men have in common that’s much more important. Ron and Chris, roommates since 2014, live in a house on their own with support from Citizen Care’s In-Home and Community Supports program. The program provides personal assistance for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to build daily living and social skills – and achieve independence.
“I’ve seen Chris and Ron develop more of a connection and improve their teamwork,” said Patrick Cooksey, Senior Habilitation Associate at Citizen Care. “Support is a team effort and leads to improved overall wellbeing.” Chris and Ron live alone, and Habilitation Associates provide support with shopping, social activity, and necessary skills for employment. Both have diligent work ethics.
Ron works as a cleaner at the 911th Airlift Wing in Moon Township. Chris splits his time as a bagger at Shop N’ Save and a cleaner at the Partners For Quality building two days a week. Taking the cleaning job was Chris’ idea as soon as he learned of the opportunity.
Ron and Chris are proud of their independence. They share chores at home, such as cooking and laundry – and each cleans their own room. They even developed a clever system when it comes to food: Chris has a gluten allergy, so he and Ron mark their food with red or green tape so it’s clear what is safe for Chris to eat and what can be used when cooking shared meals.
“Working with the individuals we support is the best job I’ve had, because they are more compassionate and understanding than anyone I encounter,” said Cooksey. “I love seeing their progress and it feels good to be a part of it.”
To learn more about the In-Home and Community Supports program, call 412-446-0765.
“I’ve seen Chris and Ron develop more of a connection and improve their teamwork.”
Patrick Cooksey
