Care Manager Helps Nelphy Achieve his Dream as Aspiring Artist

Sometimes, Care Managers can help provide the spark that members need to find what makes them happy. Nelphy, 26, lives in the Bronx. He used to spend much of his time at home and was reluctant to go into the community.

Enter Care Manager Lisenny. She spent some time with Nelphy, getting to know him and his family.  She learned that Nelphy liked to draw and had many areas of interest but was reluctant to try new things.  Lisenny encouraged Nelphy to explore his interests and suggested that he consider self-directed services, which would give him some freedom to decide what he wanted to do, and the funding to do so.

Once Lisenny assisted Nelphy in obtaining self-direction, he earmarked some of the funds for an arts program. He has staff who work with him in his home and have guided him in developing some artwork, which he proudly displayed.

Not only have the addition of self-directed services helped Nelphy explore his artistic interests, but he has also overall begun to grow in more ways than initially imagined. Nelphy has increased his social skills, goes out into the community, and has improved his overall organization and willingness to help around the house, all of which is position Nelphy as a young man who has begun the journey of personal growth and independence.

Obtaining self-direction services gave Nelphy something to do, other than just hanging around his house, unmotivated, and that lit a spark in him. As a young adult with IDD, sometimes finding your way after high school can be scary, overwhelming, and daunting. Having someone to help guide you into finding your way can make all the difference.