Client Success Stories

Andrew, a 27-year-old man, has been living at Homes for Independent Living (HIL) since June 2024. He grew up with his family in De Pere, WI, and attended Syble Hopp School. Throughout his journey to adulthood, Andrew received support from various organizations, including Mach Village and Northern Centers of Wisconsin, to meet his evolving needs. This support encompassed thorough evaluations, medication management, and crisis stabilization.

In 2024, Andrew moved into his home at HIL’s Lincoln home. Since moving here, Andrew has undergone a remarkable transformation. Behavioral challenges previously noted have significantly decreased. He thrives in a supportive environment cultivated by a dedicated team focused on his well-being and happiness. The team emphasizes recognizing and fostering Andrew's abilities and potential, leading to significant progress in his communication skills through both verbal methods and picture-based systems.

Andrew enjoys a range of enriching activities, including community outings, visits to his favorite restaurant Burger King (which he affectionately calls “KK”), sensory exploration, using his tablet or watching TV, outdoor activities, and nature walks.

Maintaining a strong connection with his family is very important to Andrew. He looks forward to weekly visits and video calls with his parents, who are deeply committed to his happiness, safety, and continued personal and community growth.

The HIL - Lincoln team remains dedicated to supporting Andrew's ongoing success by broadening his life experiences, creating opportunities tailored to his interests, and encouraging his continued development. Andrew has become a cherished member of the HIL family, and the team looks forward to celebrating his future achievements.

Dustin feels grateful for the freedom he enjoys at the RAS Supported Apartment Program, where he has lived for two years. He values the friendships he has built and appreciates the dedicated staff who support him. With guidance from his parents and staff, Dustin has developed skills to achieve greater independence. He’s especially thankful for the reminders his staff provide to help him maintain good hygiene, manage his budget, and cook meals. Dustin credits the people at HIL for helping change his life by consistently teaching and showing him what it means to be a good person.

Before moving to RAS, Dustin lived in a CBRF. After making progress in his independence, he was thrilled to transition to a supported apartment setting. Dustin acknowledges that when he first arrived at RAS, he struggled with following rules and staying motivated to complete daily tasks. Now, thanks to the support he’s received, Dustin is proud to be a friendly and respectful individual.

Jennifer joined HIL-Waukesha SAP, one of our supported apartment settings, in January 2018. Prior to her arrival, she had been living in a group home for several months. Although Jennifer felt nervous and anxious about transitioning to a new environment, she was also excited about the opportunity to learn and grow more independent.

Initially, Jennifer shared that some challenges she faced included not being able to go out into the community on her own and lacking control over her financial decisions. Over time, however, she believes she has made significant progress. By working and commuting to her job using public transportation, Jennifer has developed greater independence. She has also learned how to manage her finances by budgeting and paying her own bills.

The management team that supports Jennifer has noticed tremendous growth in her. They’ve observed that she has become less easily frustrated and emotional, and she appears to be enjoying life more as her independence has flourished. Jennifer is goal-oriented, consistently taking steps to achieve her ambitions and showing growth every day.

Jennifer’s typical day begins at 6 a.m. as she gets ready for work. She works from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at a local store, where she has been an employee for six years. She loves her job, especially because of the supportive environment it offers.

When asked about the best part of living at WSAP, Jennifer highlighted her independence. She credits her staff for teaching her how to set and achieve goals. She is deeply appreciative of their guidance, care, and support.

Since moving to WSAP, Jennifer has achieved major milestones, including becoming her own guardian and payee. She enjoys the freedom to indulge in activities like getting her hair and nails done and treating her boyfriend to meals, thanks to her earnings. Jennifer feels that HIL has profoundly changed her life, and she is grateful for all the support she has received.