South Carolina disabled residents have options, support

Everybody experiences moments in life that make them stop and reflect upon the journey. I had one of these recently, and it moved me very deeply.

Recently, I was appointed State Director of South Carolina for the national nonprofit Community Options, Inc. I have proudly been with this organization since 2007.

2007 was the year they opened their Columbia office, and their very first in South Carolina.

Community Options was founded in 1989 and has grown to support over 5,000 people with disabilities in 10 states through innovative, community-based housing and competitive employment supports.

Our founder and CEO, Robert Stack, strived to change the public’s perception of the true capabilities of people with disabilities.

We believe that all people with disabilities deserve to live and work in their communities with dignity, choice, and self-determination.

Our organization has experienced great success in South Carolina.

We have opened two additional offices in Greenville and Summerville. We employ 320 people who provide home and community-based support to 300 South Carolina residents.

Parents who once worried about what would happen to their child with disabilities now find solace in knowing they are safe, living in their own home independently.

Our homes have just two to four residents each and are staffed 24 hours a day by direct support professionals, who are the backbone of Community Options, ensuring that each person’s individual needs are met.

Over the years, many parents have expressed to me their overwhelming sense of relief and happiness for what we have been able to do for their families.

Many times, individuals who come to us have a long history of behavioral issues. Parents are blown away by the change in their loved-one’s behavior through our approach.

That is something that never gets old, and it is a pleasant reminder of why we do this. At Community Options, we understand the importance of providing proper placement for a person and the impact it has on their overall emotional well being.

It is also incredible to see positive changes in demeanor when those who always wanted to have a job find paid employment that they enjoy.

People with disabilities want to work and they make extraordinary, hardworking employees. Our team of employment specialists work closely with individuals to assess their abilities, then help guide them to jobs that accentuate and suit their strengths.

We strive to ensure that people with disabilities live their lives to their full potential.

Katelyn Mitchell is a young lady who receives residential support from us. She also works as an administrative assistant in my office. Somebody recently asked Katelyn about her experience.

“Lindsey has inspired me to be independent. She helps me when I have trouble. She believes in me and wants the best for me. Lindsey is an awesome co-worker, and she has changed my life,” Katelyn said.

At that moment, Katelyn reminded me of the magnitude of the impact we are making in the lives of those that we support, and why I love doing what I do.

Our organization is changing lives, but it is people like Katelyn who have changed mine.

Lindsey Daniel is the State Director of South Carolina for the national nonprofit Community Options, Inc.