Building a Bond that Runs Deep
For the past five years, Charlie has been supported by Kasey, his dedicated Service Coordinator. Over time, they’ve built a special bond.
“He has never had an easy road, but he’s the first to help someone else in need,” Kasey shares. “He is the kindest person I have ever met.”
Charlie is a devoted sports fan, cheering for the Baltimore Ravens and Baltimore Orioles, his favorite teams. But more than anything, his greatest passion has always been his family. He has long aspired to one day get married and care for his mother—the person who had always taken care of him.
Starting Over After Loss
Sadly, Charlie’s mother recently passed away, leaving him in need of a new home. With the help of Kasey and his day program provider, Charlie was connected to a residential home that provides him with high-quality care and a supportive environment.
After moving into his new home, Charlie developed an interest in self-advocacy, particularly within his hometown of Carroll County. Wanting to amplify the voices of others, he turned to People On The Go of Maryland, where he received training on how to start an advocacy group.
With Kasey’s support, Charlie founded an advocacy group in Carroll County—an inclusive, open forum where people in the community could feel seen and heard. “He wanted to truly build inclusion,” Kasey says.
Honoring a Living Legacy of Advocacy
With momentum on his side, Charlie’s advocacy efforts caught the attention of state leaders. Thanks to the dedication of SCI team members Kasey and Rebecca, a Coordinator of Community Services, he was connected with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—an appointment to the Maryland Commission on Disabilities. And he was accepted!
“He was so excited! He can’t wait to have a voice, represent his peers, and make a lasting impact on services,” Kasey shares.
The Heart of What SCI Does
Charlie’s journey—from overcoming adversity to shaping policies at the state level—exemplifies the power of perseverance and advocacy. From supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to helping families navigate long-term care and Medicaid waivers, SCI connects people to the resources, programs, and relationships they need to live more independently and with dignity.
Whether it’s helping someone secure safe housing, navigate a major life transition, plan for the future, or access critical services like food, health care, employment, or personal care—SCI is there every step of the way. Our person-centered approach means we meet people where they are and walk alongside them to where they want to be.
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We are incredibly proud of Charlie and grateful for dedicated SCI team members like Kasey and Rebecca, whose commitment helps people achieve their goals and create lasting change.