Client Success Stories

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.

Meet Lamonte, affectionately known as Monte—a nickname he loves to hear. Monte joined one of HIL’s Waukesha homes that specialized in behavioral support in September of 2020. Monte faced some challenges when he first arrived at Homes for Independent Living. Adjusting to new staff and surroundings was tough, as he is non-verbal, and Monte expressed his frustrations in his own unique ways.

Early on, communication between Monte and his team wasn’t easy. Both sides needed to find common ground. To help bridge this gap, Monte’s staff and management began posting pictures around the home of things Monte enjoys—his tablet, the van, favorite foods, and the swing outside. As Monte’s ability to communicate grew, so did the collection of pictures, making it easier for him to share his preferences.

With consistent support, Monte began to trust and bond with his staff. He’s learned to say words like “thank you,” “please,” “hi,” and “bye.” Monte also enjoys helping out around the house—vacuuming, taking out the garbage, helping with dinner prep, and even making juice and peanut butter sandwiches with staff supervision.

Monte is very active and loves spending time outdoors with his team. Together, they take long walks, swing outside, watch old black-and-white movies, listen to music, and even race up and down the driveway. The joy on Monte’s face says it all—he feels safe, happy, and at home.

Monte knows his staff care deeply for him and are dedicated to making sure he has everything he needs. The trust and connection built over time are clear to everyone who visits. Monte’s favorite things include his tablet, good food, and most of all, his home with his supportive staff.

Monte is an intelligent, kind soul and a true success story. We are proud to celebrate Monte and his dedicated team for all they have achieved together on this incredible journey.

Since the age of 17, Ben was placed in various facilities and mental health hospitals before being placed at Fairfield. Throughout this time, Ben exhibited anger and frustration through verbal and physical aggression toward both staff and peers, property damage, as well as elopement from home during behavioral episodes. These behaviors seemed to stem from changes in routine, unexpected visitors, or not receiving desired items or reinforcement when he felt it was necessary. Ben struggled to express his needs, emotions, and fears.

During his time at Fairfield, Ben has made significant progress in being able to communicate his wants and needs more clearly, a skill he previously found difficult. He now shows less frustration with his daily routine and has become more confident in expressing himself.

Kindness is one of Ben's greatest strengths. He often asks others how they are doing and genuinely cares about those around him. Looking ahead, the hope for Ben is that he continues to build on his communication skills and effectively manage his frustrations, while also striving for greater success in the community.

Ben has a strong interest in listening to music and places great value on maintaining a tidy living space. He enjoys vacuuming and cleaning his area. He also values the positive interactions he has with staff members and appreciates the opportunities to engage with the community. The positive relationships he has with staff and his involvement in community activities are key elements of his life. When asked about how the people at HIL have helped transform his life, he mentioned that they treat him with kindness and respect.