New England

Kevin has turned his passion for acting and video production into paid work, performing as a character actor at Canobie Lake Park and volunteering at a community media station, where he hosts a weekly talk show. With support that follows his interests and goals, Kevin has built a routine that combines employment, creative pursuits, and community involvement while continuing to pursue his dream of expanding his own TV series.

After completing Project SEARCH, Leandra found a job as a cook at Burger King, where she uses her love of cooking to prepare meals and serve customers. With support from her service coordinator, Leandra has gained confidence and independence at work and is working toward future goals, including getting her driver’s license, moving into her own apartment, and becoming a nurse.

Emely has worked part time at Sephora for five years, where she stocks products and helps customers with their beauty and skincare needs. After gaining experience through Project SEARCH, she found a job that matches her passion for cosmetics and hopes to advance at Sephora while building her independence and financial skills.

Cristina is a self-advocate, author, and poet who turned her passion for writing into a career. With support from family, mentors, and technology, she has published four books and shared her work nationally and internationally. Her story highlights how education, technology, and strong support networks can help people achieve their career goals.

Matthew’s passion for advocacy and poetry has opened new opportunities in his community, including becoming a published author. Discover how education, volunteering, and a supportive writing group helped Matthew turn his passion for writing into self-employment.

When constant staff changes made work stressful, Johnathan and his family turned to self-directed services for stability. Through Massachusetts’ Participant-Directed Program, he hired trusted family members as job coaches, giving him consistency and control over his schedule. Fifteen years later, Johnathan thrives at his grocery store job, surrounded by supportive coworkers and friends. His story shows how choice and trusted relationships can transform employment and quality of life.

Joe is a 29-year-old from Central Massachusetts. He lives in his own home and has a close relationship with his parents and siblings. He works as a busser at a restaurant where he is well liked and known as a hard worker. Outside of work, he has a very active life and enjoys working out, Special Olympics skiing and bowling, running 5ks, playing Jumbo hockey, socializing with friends and family, and going to movies. Joe also has a garden where he takes care of vegetables he grows and donates to community organizations. Joe thrives when he’s busy and engaged with his surroundings.

Rachel is a young adult who describes herself as a social person who likes to connect to the community. Rachel recently began working at the Institute for Community Inclusion as a disability advocate advisor. She supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to engage with ICI’s projects, and she helps project staff design and distribute materials in plain language. Rachel realized in college that she wanted to become an advocate for people with disabilities, and she believes that her current job is a step toward reaching that goal. Read her story! Watch Rachel's video!

Brian is 23 years old, lives near Boston, Massachusetts, and has autism. He has a passion for photography, which he uses to share his perspective with the world via his website, through the eyes of Brian. He also enjoys taking self-designed community trips and hiking in the mountains. Brian is driven, committed to doing what he sets his mind to, and willing to take on new challenges. Over time, Brian has developed a strong interest in working in a school.