Somerville

Full-time Mom, Full-time DSP

We had been thinking about what would come next in Will’s life after he graduated from high school. Like many of us who have a child who receives supports, we thought that after he graduated, his only options were either going to a day program or working in a traditional job. We looked at day programs and quickly realized that Will wouldn’t flourish there. Will lives at home with us on the farm in New Jersey. In this rural community, there aren’t many employment options. He tried a few jobs, and like a lot of people who are just starting out, they weren’t the best fit. We all know that when a job isn’t a good fit, it usually causes stress. This was the case with Will. He is a joy-filled, easy-going guy and having a job that wasn’t a good fit was really hard on him.

In 2019, he was working a couple of jobs that slowed down in winter. This slowdown got me thinking about helping him find something that he would enjoy and that was meaningful to him. Will has Down syndrome, and he receives support from direct support professionals (DSPs). Before the COVID-19 pandemic, he had support from three DSPs. I was also his DSP and filled in occasionally when his other DSPs weren’t available. I started a conversation with Will and his other DSPs about what he enjoyed and what was important to him. One thing that he really cares about is health. This is where the idea of Will’s Ware

began. We worked together to help him start his own business.

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Is this a “Pet Peeve” or Something That Matters to Me?