With the help of my family and school, I have advocated for support and services to help me while in school and through the transition to living on my own. Throughout high school, my parents and I were not satisfied with the handling of my IEP, so we spoke up for what we felt I needed to be successful as an adult. I talked with my parents and school about going to college. My parents and school contacted the SAVE Program, which helped provide transition support through my IEP to go to college. I took classes and had an internship to help prepare me for jobs. I had on-the-job training with the custodial and maintenance staff all year long and worked on campus in the Lakers Café. My transition required many steps, including finding my own apartment and learning about housing and independent living support. Independent Living Choices (ILC) helps me with independent living skills like budgeting, keeping track of my checkbook, and spending. Also, through ILC I get out and spend time with people (by attending support group get-togethers) when I can. I was able to participate in the Partners In Policymaking Program, a leadership and advocacy training that empowers people with developmental disabilities and their families and learn how to advocate better for myself.

“My Road to Transitioning” —a story by Caryn Johnson, young adult advocate