When David was faced with the possibility of having to move to a group home with his health failing, his dream of living independently seemed to be slipping away. Toward Maximum Independence (TMI), a nonprofit dedicated to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), Case Manager Keltoum Cherki stepped in to ensure that his dream would become a reality and that he would get the health coverage he needed.
Keltoum contacted San Diego Regional Center, who assists individuals with I/DD and their families, as well as David’s family to explain that a group home wasn’t the right choice for David. He needed to be independent. Keltoum quickly got to work and was able to find David a one bedroom apartment close to his sister. She also requested that his TMI Independent Living hours be increased, as well as assigned additional TMI support staff to assist David during the day and late afternoons. Additionally, Keltoum worked with David to change his health coverage to a better plan.
“Being able to assist our clients, like David, gives me a sense of peace,” said Keltoum. “Nothing makes me happier than seeing our clients happy.”
David’s new home has helped him to feel less stressed and upset about his future. He is now hopeful and looks forward to meeting new friends and finding his significant other, as well as listening to music in his new home and spending time with his family.
“I have been dreaming of moving close to my family in a bigger apartment and in safer area for years,” said David. “Now, TMI has made my dream come true. I don’t feel lonely anymore.”
We all deserve happiness, David. We are so happy to have set you on that path!
The TMI Independent Living program assists individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live as independently as possible at home with the necessary support. The program provides up to 80 hours a month of one-on-one support to adults with disabilities living in their own home. Services are focused on skill development and can include, but are not limited to:
· Money management
· Meal planning and preparation
· Shopping and accessing community resources
· Safety, health and household management
· Parenting education
· Budgeting, bill paying, financial management
· Community orientation, access and participation
· Accessing community resources
· Self-advocacy
· Social skills, relationship building
Please contact us at info@tmi-inc.org or (800) 877-5452 for additional information. We look forward to hearing from you!
Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) has been transforming the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1981 and the Deaf and Hard of Hearing since 2000. In 2020, we launched Disabled Veteran Employment Services. TMI strives to help our clients to realize their hopes and dreams by providing Employment Solutions, Community Living and Family Support Services throughout San Diego, Riverside and Imperial Counties. To stay connected with us, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Together we can share acceptance and awareness, ultimately contributing to further inclusion.
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