Stories

Driving Toward Independence: Gwyenthan Takes the Wheel

For Gwyenthan, independence has always been the goal.

A Baltimore City resident, Gwyenthan lives with his family and has worked closely with his Coordinator of Community Services (CCS), Diamond, for the past four years. During that time, he has built a strong support network that includes employment services through Alliance and personal support services from The Chimes.

Gwyenthan has also been a dedicated employee at a shoe store in White Marsh, where he has worked for more than four years. He enjoys learning new skills and has taken pride in trying different roles, from working as a cashier to stocking merchandise to assisting customers on the sales floor. Until recently, he relied on public transportation or occasional rides from his support worker to get to and from work.

But for Gwyenthan, there was always a bigger dream.

For years, he shared one clear goal during team meetings: earning his driver’s license and buying his own car. Those who work with him describe his determination as “really adamant.” Gwyenthan knew it would not be easy and he also knew it would be worth it.

With his goal front and center, his team rallied around him. His CCS researched resources and study guides. His mother became his dedicated study partner. His support worker helped schedule MVA appointments and keep him on track. When Gwyenthan struggled with the written test, often second‑guessing his answers at the last minute, his team reminded him to trust what he had learned and believe in himself.

Gwyenthan also advocated for himself by requesting an accommodation for the written learner’s permit test, allowing an MVA employee to read the questions aloud while he responded. After several attempts and a great deal of perseverance, Gwyenthan proudly announced to his team that he passed the learner’s permit test in March 2026!

The momentum didn’t stop there.

In April 2026, Gwyenthan graduated from the classroom portion of driving school and is now preparing for behind‑the‑wheel practice and his final driver’s test. He’s already looking ahead to the day he earns his license, saves for a car, and drives himself to work on his own schedule and how he chooses.

This journey is a powerful example of what’s possible when determination, encouragement, and person‑centered support come together. Gwyenthan earned this milestone through his own hard work and determination, with family, supports, and his team cheering him on, offering guidance, and helping navigate the steps along the way.

Congratulations, Gwyenthan, on following your dream and driving toward the life you choose.

 

Every goal starts with a conversation.  Learn how SCI supports people in setting goals, building confidence, and pursuing the lives they choose—one step at a time.

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