Jacqui and her roommates in Mike’s House take turns preparing dinner each day with minimal staff guidance.
Through their unwavering determination and grit, ten residents of the Center successfully completed a rigorous curriculum of classes offered by the Social Services Department.
Dubbed “Independence College,” the program was designed to equip these individuals with the necessary skills to lead more self-reliant lives.
The courses covered a wide array of topics and were tailored to each resident’s unique needs and abilities. From cooking and budgeting to job readiness and communication, the program provided a comprehensive toolkit for independent living.
Celebrating achievements
Residents celebrated their success with a grand graduation ceremony in early 2022 after months of hard work. Graduates beamed with pride as they received their diplomas and reflected on their journey, surrounded with equally big smiles of the family, friends, and members of the community congratulated them on their achievements.
Since graduating, the residents have continued to reap the benefits of their newfound independence. With greater freedom to engage with the community, they have taken on new hobbies, volunteered for local causes, and formed close bonds with one another.
Every Monday the residents of Mike’s House take a trip to the local grocery store to buy their necessities for the week. These ladies prepare dinner together and enjoy their meal in a family atmosphere.
Encouraged by the success of the program, the Social Services Department is planning to relaunch Independence College. Building on the skills learned by the first cohort of graduates, the new program will continue to empower residents with the tools they need to lead independent and fulfilling lives.
This post is on page 11 of St. Louis Center’s 2022 Annual Report.
Read St. Louis Center 2022 Annual Report
If this article or any of the stories of inspiration shared in St. Louis Center’s Annual Report move you, please consider a donation of any amount in support of the Center’s Benevolent Care fund.
St. Louis Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
Federal Tax ID: 38-6038121.
77% of donations received go to the care of the Center’s residents.
According to the 2022 audit, St. Louis Center administrative and overhead expenses were only 23%, in line with well-managed nonprofit best practices. You can be confident that your donation to the Center is going to good use.
