Client Success Stories
Get to know the people who call HIL home...
“Moving to HIL changed me in a better way. It was the best decision for me. I can be myself, goof off, and be funny. I make better choices and feel safe.” Knowing this is how Ryan feels makes the HIL staff truly happy.
Ryan joined HIL in October 2024 after leaving another Adult Family Home (AFH), where he had a negative experience. That environment left him feeling anxious and apprehensive about what to expect at HIL. Ryan first moved into a 1:1 behavioral home to ensure he had the support and reassurance he needed. We understood that it would take time for him to realize that HIL was different, and our staff worked hard to show him that everyone here is dedicated to his well-being and safety.
After a few months, Ryan had settled in and was able to transition to a three-bed home, where he now lives with two roommates he really connects with. He often shares how much he enjoys their company and how much fun they have together. While living alone was okay, Ryan truly appreciates having roommates.
Throughout his time in both programs, Ryan has made remarkable progress. He now attends a day program weekly for social activities, has formed friendships, and participates in music therapy. He also remains committed to his faith, attending church and Bible study with his mom, and enjoying Christian Rock music.
His current program supervisor has expressed pride in how much Ryan has grown. He’s become more open, is trying new things in the community, and especially enjoys the weekly dinners out at local restaurants. Ryan frequently mentions his appreciation for the dedicated staff who support him, help him maintain a healthy routine, and encourage his independence with self-care and household responsibilities.
Although Ryan was initially nervous about moving to another group home, he now encourages others in similar situations to give it a try. He has gone from feeling anxious, quiet, and reserved to being communicative, adventurous, and engaged with those around him. Ryan is happy and thriving at HIL, and we are grateful to have him as part of our community!
Jesse is a 55-year-old gentleman who resides at Homes for Independent Living’s Sullivan program. He has faced mental health challenges throughout his adult life, often finding community placements overwhelming and spending significant time in various treatment centers.
Born and raised in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Jesse is a proud lifelong Packers fan. He is the eldest of two children and graduated from Green Bay Southwest High School in 1990. Over the years, Jesse has held a variety of jobs in the community, including Sanitation Specialist at Pizza Hut, Master of the Rinse Cycle at Taco Bell, and Master Replenisher at the Rock and Roll Resale shop.
Since moving to Homes for Independent Living in 2022, Jesse has made tremendous progress. With the support of HIL Sullivan staff and behavioral services, he has not required any hospitalizations—a milestone he is proud of. Jesse has also rebuilt relationships with his sister and father, and has successfully integrated into community activities, including attending a Packers game and looking forward to a Journey concert next year.
When asked what he enjoys most about HIL, Jesse shares that he values the company of staff, going out to play Bingo, visiting the Packer Hall of Fame (where he is an honorary lifetime member), playing pool, and going to the movies. He looks forward to another year of living in the community, managing his symptoms independently, and hopes to explore community employment and join a bowling league in the near future. Some of Jesse’s proudest moments include meeting Bret Michaels, attending a KISS concert, and visiting Disney World.
Jesse and his team are committed to helping him achieve his goals, and everyone is thrilled with the progress he has made. The staff and management at HIL Sullivan are grateful to be a part of his journey. Jesse is smart, funny, a fantastic sports reporter, and has a generous heart. The HIL family is truly lucky to have him.
Zhenya Scheu joined HIL on 5/8/23. He transitioned to Homes for Independent Living because he wanted to build more independence in his life. After settling in, Zhenya’s typical day began to include searching for a job he enjoyed and forming connections with others at HIL as well as people in the community. What Zhenya appreciates most about HIL is having the chance to be independent while still knowing support is available when he needs it.
Zhenya now works at Culver’s as a cashier, a job he loves. He feels it helps him stay busy, be productive, and contribute to his sense of independence. He shared that Homes for Independent Living has helped him feel safe while continuing to grow his independence.
