When Michael talks about his home at Home and Community Options, one thing becomes clear: he is grateful to be there.
Before moving to HCO, Michael says he did not always receive the kind of care and support he needed. His experience left him unsure of what to expect when he moved into his HCO home. It did not take long, however, for him to realize that this was a new beginning.
Today, Michael is quick to share how happy he is to be at HCO. He often thanks staff for welcoming him into his home and for giving him the opportunity to live somewhere he feels supported, respected and cared for. According to Ashley, one of Michael’s staff members, he thanks her nearly every day for helping him move into his HCO home.
For Michael, those words of gratitude are more than a simple thank-you. They reflect how much his life has changed since coming to HCO.
Originally from Winona, Michael graduated from Winona Senior High School and has created a routine that keeps him busy and gives him opportunities to continue growing. Monday through Thursday, he works at ORC before returning home to spend time with his housemates and staff.
He has also found more opportunities to do the things he enjoys. Michael loves watching wrestling, fishing, bowling and playing bean bags through Project Compass. He enjoys cooking, especially on Wednesdays when he prepares meals for his housemates, and gardening, a hobby he learned from his grandpa. This year, he is especially excited to use peppermint from the garden to make homemade ice cream.
Some of Michael’s favorite moments are the simple ones. He enjoys starting his mornings by making his own coffee and breakfast, whether he is having cereal, pancakes or waffles. He takes pride in keeping his room clean, doing his Sunday cleaning routine and continuing to learn new skills.
With encouragement from staff, Michael has grown more confident in doing things for himself. He has continued developing his cooking and laundry skills and is learning how to manage his medications. Staff are there to provide support when he needs it, while also giving him the opportunity to make choices, practice skills and take ownership of his daily life.
That balance has made a meaningful difference for Michael. He appreciates knowing that staff are there for him, but he also values being able to do more on his own.
Living at HCO has also opened the door to new experiences. Michael enjoys spending time with his housemates and participating in activities such as going to the movies and playing board games. He is excited about having more opportunities to get involved in his community and hopes to eventually volunteer at the Humane Society once a week because of his love for cats. He is also working toward becoming more active by walking for exercise.
While Michael has many hobbies and goals, what he talks about most is the people around him. He is grateful for the staff who support him and for the home he now gets to call his own.
His story is a reminder that support is about more than helping someone through the day. It is about creating an environment where a person feels safe, valued and heard. It is about encouraging independence while being there when help is needed. And sometimes, it is about giving someone the opportunity to experience what it truly feels like to be home.
For Michael, that opportunity has made all the difference.
