On July 1, 2020–in the middle of a pandemic and one of the most uncertain times in our clients’ memories–we opened the doors to the NextWork Academy of Independent Living. Similar programs throughout the country were losing clients while we gained 10 new residents and began a wait list. This is just evidence that this program is the right solution, at the right time. 

On July 15, 2021, we celebrated a year of independence for our residents and the completion of our pilot project. We learned together, laughed together, tried new things and survived challenging situations. Because of the depth of support from donors, our Ad hoc Advisory Committee, the Columbus Board, and amazing parents and our residents, we look forward to another year and another adventure. The residents made gifts for our supporters, and we served gourmet hot dogs and pot luck dishes from our families. Following dinner, we hung out in the NextWork classroom while watching a video put together by one of our students, combining photos of the program participants throughout the year. A big thank you to everyone who came and shared in our celebration!