Tom…Dreams Come Alive!!!
It’s 4:30 in the morning and Tom is already up and ready to go to work. Tom is very proud that he is employed and lives in his own house. It wasn’t always this way. When Tom was born 44 years ago, there was little opportunity for a person with a developmental disability.
By God’s grace, Tom was blessed with many opportunities through Catholic Charities that assisted in his educational, social, and spiritual growth. Twenty one years ago, Tom joined the Continuing Adult Education Program at OLA/St. Joseph Center where he developed new friendships and learned new skills that assisted him in his social development and his ability to be employed. He also began attending Catholic Charities monthly dances for adults with disabilities. He expanded his circle of friends and moved on to volunteer at the dances, again furthering his ability to be employed.
Three years ago, Tom achieved his dream and got his first job. He proudly told everyone all about it! After his first week, while attending St. Augustine Church in Cleveland, the congregation recognized him with a round of applause for completing his first full week of work! In addition to his current employment, Tom continues to volunteer at the monthly dances and at the Disability Services’ Summer Camp program.
Tom’s other dream was to own his own home. When his mother passed away four years ago, the house was to go on the market. Tom turned to Catholic Charities to assist him. Catholic Charities Disability Services & Ministries was able to connect him to the appropriate community supports. Just last year, Tom became the proud owner of his mother’s home!
Since 1966, Catholic Charities Disability Services & Ministries has offered opportunities to persons with disabilities to develop their skills and grow in their relationship with God. In addition to services mentioned, Catholic Charities Disability Services & Ministries provides weekend retreats and other ministries to various communities of persons with disabilities in the Diocese of Cleveland.
Learn more about the services and programs provided by Catholic Charities Disabilty Services and Ministries