Although David was new to The Arc of Essex County’s services when he joined the West Orange Group Home in September, he immediately became part of The Arc family and settled into his new routine in no time. David particularly enjoys watching movies, playing games, and talking to loved ones—his girlfriend, his sister, his nieces—on the phone. “I like to be in my room the best,” he says, though he also was quick to mention the fun times he shares with housemates Jeff and John, the memories he makes attending the West Caldwell Hub Day Program, and how much he enjoys going out to the movies.

Senior Director of Residential Services Rebecca Lorusso noted that, when David was moving into West Orange, he was immediately very consciences and polite with his housemates, even finding comfortable seats for them in a large group setting at day programs. “It was a nice sentiment, that he was already a part of the group, looking out for his housemates,” she says.

David is fond of group meals, especially eggs for breakfast, but says he also loves when his sister orders food to be delivered to him. He stays in touch with his family, and was happy to spend the holidays at his sister’s house.

He also loves joking around with the West Orange staff. “He’s fun and he’s very laid back,” says Katoyah, a Direct Support Professional in the home. “We’re happy to have him here.”

The Arc of Essex County is proud to tell the story of David and other stories of successful and smooth transitions into our group-living environments. For additional information about our residential services, contact The Arc’s Senior Director of Residential Services Rebecca Lorusso via email at rlorusso@arcessex.org or by calling (973) 535-1181 ext. 1270.