Josh Nelson learns life skills to become independent
After Josh began working with the Supported Community Living program, he set major goals for himself. Josh wanted to live independently within the community, which meant moving out of his parent’s home and into his own apartment. Moving out of his parent’s home was a big step. It was the first time Josh had lived away from his parents, siblings, and family pets.
In order for Josh to move out on his own, it was necessary for him to get plans in place. Josh set goals to save money and to develop the daily living skills that he would use when he was living in his own place. By moving out, Josh would have to make the time to clean, grocery shop, and cook for himself.
Josh also had to learn to how to manage his money. He learned that he needed to spend money for his basic needs and bills before he could spend money on wants.
Like all of us, Josh learned that sometimes he had to cut back on some recreational activities in order to save money for bills. In the process, Josh learned the importance of following a budget in order to spread his money out so he could pay his bills and enjoy recreational activities such as going the movies with friends.
Over the last few months, Josh has met weekly with Supported Community Living staff at Goodwill to work on budgeting. Even during tight times, Josh has been able to keep his apartment in the community and get his bills paid using his own money. Josh has lived independently for more than two years.
Josh joined other success stories and was recognized at the 2011 Achievement Awards banquet held at the Coralville Marriot earlier this year.
