One Step at a Time: Jojo's Journey at Community Services

All it takes is one activity. One person who keeps showing up. Over time, all of those moments build confidence – and new possibilities.

For Jojo, that journey began in 2019 when he joined Easterseals Midwest's Community Services program.

Community Services at Easterseals Midwest offers daytime skill and development services and supports. The focus is on developing independence, social skills, and self-advocacy with the purpose of moving program participants towards community employment or volunteerism.

At first, each day brought significant challenges. Jojo preferred to be by himself and chose not to join activities or follow directions. He required one-on-one support because of aggressive behaviors and ate only chili and French fries.

Community Services Manager Nicolas Lallana remembers those early days clearly.

"Jojo preferred to be on his own, chose not to participate in any activity or follow directions, only ate chili and French fries, and required lots of one-on-one support due to aggressive behavior," Nicolas said.

The Community Services team knew trust would take time. Instead of measuring success by quick changes, they focused on showing up every day with patience, encouragement, and consistency.

A few years into the program, something began to change.

Jojo started building stronger relationships with staff. Nicolas and Jojo created a simple goal together. If Jojo made good choices for a month, they would celebrate by visiting his favorite restaurant.

Each success opened the door to another.

Jojo began joining activities with others. He spent less time alone and more time building friendships. Everyday routines became opportunities to practice new skills and gain confidence.

Some of Nicolas' favorite moments are the quieter ones.

"His physical affection and seeing him independently clean up after himself really stand out," he said.

Now, Jojo's life looks very different than it did when he first arrived.

He plays large group games with his peers. He enjoys trying new foods and drinks that once seemed out of reach. When his mom brings him food, he tells her he loves her every time. He also greets staff with hugs, reflecting the trusting relationships he has built over the years.

Jojo has his favorite activities, too.

"Ladderball and riding the escalator out in the community," he said with a smile.

His story is about hundreds of small victories that slowly changed what was possible. That steady progress reflects the heart of Community Services.

The program helps adults with disabilities build independence, strengthen social skills, and become active members of their communities through individualized, person-centered support.

For Nicolas, Jojo's journey offers an important reminder to everyone who supports people with disabilities.

"Patience and consistency," he said. "Little wins turn into big gains."

Jojo's journey proves that progress does not have to happen quickly to be life changing.

Every relationship built, every new experience, and every small step forward helped create the confident, connected person we see today.

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Interested in learning more about Community Servies and how the program helps adults build independence, confidence, and community connections?

Learn more about Community Services.