Daniel’s Story

At 24, Daniel has overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. Born with developmental disabilities, behavioral health issues, and addicted to drugs, Daniel entered foster care as an infant. He was adopted as a toddler by a loving mother who tragically passed away just a few years later. Daniel’s aunt cared for him until his needs eventually became too difficult for her to manage on her own. That’s when he was introduced to SCO.

When he was 15, Daniel came to SCO’s Extraordinary Needs group home, where specially-trained staff provide care, guidance, and a home-like experience for adolescents with developmental disabilities. At first, Daniel was reserved and had trouble communicating. But as time went on, Daniel gained confidence and found his voice – literally – while attending singing and performance workshops. Daniel

Since then, his progress has been nothing short of remarkable. Daniel is now able to talk and has become quite the social butterfly. He loves to bowl, watch Jeopardy, and engage in community activities. A budding diplomat (and Mets fan), he even attended a Yankees game with his housemates, although he refused to cheer.

Daniel is open and honest and has become a model resident. He’s a meticulous dresser who always puts his best foot forward. “That’s how we do it at SCO,” he says. Often referred to as the mayor of the house, Daniel keeps track of everything and everyone, advocating for himself and his peers.

As Daniel transitions to adulthood, SCO remains by his side with the supports he needs for a bright future. Last year, Daniel moved into a new SCO Individual Residential Alternative (IRA), a residence designed specifically for adults with challenges like his. Here Daniel continues to receive services, supports, and encouragement to live a full and independent life. New routines, new friends, and new adventures lay in store for Daniel, who is navigating his new surroundings like a pro.

Professional Development

At SCO, we invest our time and energy into helping our clients build a stronger foundation for the future. Equally important is the investment in our dedicated staff. SCO’s Center for Professional Development offers seminars, monthly educational workshops, and continuing education courses for staff and professionals from other agencies.

SCO Family of Services is an equal opportunity employer. Our agency emphasizes and promotes diversity as we believe that having a diverse staff/workforce is essential to fostering a more innovative, creative, and productive environment. We strongly encourage applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, socio-economic status, life experiences or military/veteran status. All qualified candidates will have a strong sensitivity to and appreciation of differences among staff and clients within our organization.