Alec began his journey with The Arc of Opportunity in January of 2018 when he moved into one of our Worcester residential group homes. Alec, a native to Worcester, has spent most of his life living and developing rich relationships in his community. He is happy The Arc supported him to find a place he can call home in the heart of his hometown.
Alec has a vast knowledge of the city’s layout and thrives on his ability to access public transportation and navigate independently. However, he has struggled to communicate his needs when found in uncomfortable situations. Before living in his new group home, Alec would often seek emergency services while out in the community as a means of reassurance when he was unsure of what to do.
Over the last three years, Alec accessed emergency services well over 100 times, with 55 visits to the emergency room in 2017 alone. The Arc’s mission is to support Alec’s ability to access the community safely. With celebration, since his move, Alec drastically decreased the number of hospital visits while in the community. In 2018, Alec visited the ER from the community less than 20 times and everyday he is gaining interpersonal skills that allow him to express his needs to enhance his quality of life.
Alec is a determined and independent individual who, with a little support, enjoys a rich and engaging community life. The Arc is pleased to support Alec and we look forward to many years exploring Worcester with him!