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.

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SCO LGBTQ+ Peer Support Group

Who:
Any SCO youth 13+ who identifies as LGBTQAI+

What:
The LGBTQ+ Support Group is a peer youth group for SCO’s youth who identify under the LGBTQAI+ umbrella. Meetings include community-related discussions where the youth are encouraged to share their experiences with the rest of the group. They are also encouraged to bring along people who are a part of their support system – whether they identify as a part of the community or not. Snacks and refreshments are provided.

Where:
SCO’s Brooklyn Office located at 154 Lawrence Street

When:
Every third Friday of the month, from 4:30PM to 6PM.

Why:
Being in foster care is difficult enough. “Coming out” while is care is twice as hard and can leave youth feeling alienated and afraid. SCO’s Forward Journey and Lifeset Departments wanted to create a safe space where SCO youth who identify as LGBTQAI+ can meet peers and support one another.

How:
Contact Gisele Doucet – [email protected], or Sahajja Harris – [email protected]

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Success Stories

Adam Graves

"Garden of Dreams is the single most important thing we do.” Learn More

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… Learn More

95%

of women in our residential recovery program remained substance free

We shelter

5,200

youth, adults and children

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