How We Got Here
Our concept started on a bleacher in 2014 when two mothers - Sheila and Susan - first met and discovered that they had the same dream for their sons. As they watched their boys compete in that Special Olympics track meet at Muskego High School little did they know where this new friendship would lead them.
The boys, Marvin, Max, and Matt were very active socially and thrived in the high school environment. They had many opportunities for learning and social engagement in the classroom, sporting events, dances, and other high school events. The boys went on to attend the 2-year transition program to extend their time in high school because it was truly the best time of their lives.
The Frisinger and Marriott families.
For young adults with disabilities transition programs end at age 21, and so do most of the supports they provide. Families are left to navigate what is next. Most are faced with questions such as: Where will my son or daughter live? Where will they work? What happens when we as parents are no longer around?
Currently, adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) face an extreme shortage of safe and supportive residential options, as well as social, recreational, and vocational opportunities. Did you know that more than 50% of adults with IDD in Wisconsin who have the waiver funding that could enable them to live in a home of their own still live in their family home because of the lack of safe and supportive residential options?
That’s 17,000 individuals.
And the need is growing every year. The lack of options can lead to isolation and loneliness when what most individuals with IDD want is to have friends, work, and live within a vibrant and inclusive community.
We researched options and found that new residential communities were in development across the country. These communities addressed the goals of adults with IDD to build friendships, enjoy fulfilling social lives, learn, and expand their interests as well as create opportunities for these adults to live independently with appropriate supports.
We consulted with sons, families, and caregivers, as well as experts in best practices for residential options and after a lot of thoughtful consideration decided that our vision would include residences, programs and outings, and an Enrichment Center.
Our Vision Embodies 5 Guiding Principles:
Community - Create a sustainable community of trust, respect, and life-long friendships
Safety - Provide a safe and supportive environment
Independence - Encourage self-determination and self-advocacy
Wellness - Promote the wellbeing of mind, body, and soul
Enrichments - Foster life-long learning through community collaborations
Why Are We Called Journey21?
Our name came about because at the age of 21 is when most of the supportive and social structure of school that has supported children and adults with IDD ends (also known as falling off the cliff), and families and those adults begin their new journey towards independence. Life is a Journey, EVERYONE should have the OPPORTUNITY to live their best life.
