Mia’s Story

Do you remember life before the pandemic? That feeling of comfort being in a public space with your peers? The social experience has changed drastically over the last few years; many aspects of public life have transformed.

For the last 14 years, Mia has been attending Independent Living’s Community Independence Program (CIP), a program for adults with developmental disabilities. Pre-pandemic, Mia was very active in the community; she particularly enjoyed going to the gym with staff and peers to exercise.

Post-pandemic, Mia became hesitant to join in activities in the community or local gym due to exposure concerns. CIP staff members were able to tailor program activities to Mia’s comfort level. Every week, Independent Living brings in a Zumba instructor for the individuals in the program.

Mia has the opportunity to prioritize her health again while engaging in community activities in a space where she is comfortable, with her peers.

To continue to hear about the impact your donation dollars make, such as helping fund Zumba for program participants like Mia, sign up to receive updates about how we continue to engage with and support our consumers in their journeys toward independence.