You Give Karen Hope for Independence

Karen

Karen, Hope Services program participant

Karen entered Hope Services’ Supported Living program in 2004 with the goal of achieving greater independence.

She experienced what it was like to have her own space and one-on-one support for the first time when she moved from a group home into her two-bedroom apartment. With the help of her full-time companion, Karen developed crucial life skills like cooking, cleaning and managing her errands in a safe and healthy environment.

“Supported living is different,” Karen shared. “I’m able to be independent and do things for myself.”

Access to one-on-one assistance has played a crucial role in Karen’s overall development, particularly in helping her cope with severe depression and personal losses during the pandemic. Despite these challenges, Karen has shown incredible resilience and tenacity.

Karen doing dishesWith the unwavering support of her live-in companion and program supervisor, she has learned more about herself, developed self-confidence and committed to nurturing her mental health.

Recently, Karen has made incredible strides in her financial independence. After years of struggling with overspending, she has learned to save and even bought a new couch from Living Spaces.

This achievement boosted Karen’s confidence in managing her money and set her on a path to becoming her own payee. She also managed to gain an hour of solitude each morning—a step toward even greater independence.

Karen’s journey shines a light on the sustained impact of Hope’s Supported Living Services. Thanks to the loyal support of donors like you, Hope Services continues to transform lives like Karen’s, fostering independence and self-reliance even years after they first enter the program.