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Organizations, like people, have their own distinct character. At the Centers, the things we do and how we do them are based on our history, our shared values, and our vision of the future.

SUCCESS STORY

My Visit with William EarlBilly Earl in 1977
by Dawn Bricen, Director of Public Relations

William Earl keeps a tidy home. Billy, as he’s known to family and friends, resides in one of the Centers’ seventeen residential homes. I found Billy folding laundry and chatting with his visiting nephew Jason when I stopped by his home (last week). I was at the house to take some photographs for a newspaper advertisement that would be printed the following week to raise awareness of the adult William With His Photographsservices the Centers provide. Billy has been a part of the Centers’ programs since 1977 and recently celebrated his 10th anniversary as part of the residential program which provides homes for adults with developmental disabilities.


 When the conversation shifted to photography, William proudly showed me his framed pictures of the landscape and foliage around Ithaca displayed on his wall. He reminded me that his photos have been displayed locally and some have even been sold. After checking out my camera we made our way to the living room for the photo shoot.


As Jason and Billy settled on the couch, Jason retold the story of Billy staying at his house in Ithaca for a weekend. “I got home kind of late and Billy was still up playing video games.” Teasingly he put his arm around his uncle saying, “You played Grand Theft Auto for 48 hours straight!”  As I finished up the photos I explained my deadline for the paper was approaching in a few hours and I had to go back to the office. Billy gave me a biJason and Billyg hug and I made my exit promising to visit again soon.

Billy at his home
While at Billy’s house I was struck by the comfortable surroundings and relaxed atmosphere. Each of the folks that live there has their own space, their own items, pictures on the walls, and even a computer station. When I spoke with William’s sister (Jason’s mom) she remarked, “Billy goes grocery shopping and [the folks at the house] make meals together. He gets to live independently but there is always someone there if he needs help. It’s been amazing for him.” It seems I was lucky to have a chance to even visit William—between work, hobbies, spending time with friends, and visiting family he maintains quite the busy schedule. I look forward to my next visit with William Earl but I think I’ll need to call ahead!
 

 

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