Arjun’s Story

When Arjun joined SCO’s Individual Residential Alternatives program in 2014, his developmental disabilities and behavioral challenges greatly impacted his ability to function. They were so severe that he could not be in crowds, public spaces, and was unable to socialize. There were times when Arjun would refuse to eat meals with his housemates.

With the help and dedication of SCO’s staff, a plan was developed to help Arjun address these challenges and work towards achieving his goals. Last summer, Arjun attended the YMCA Camp Huguenot with his peers where he had a blast doing a variety of activities such as archery, rock climbing and canoeing. The fun did not stop there! After the camping trip, Arjun took a major step forward and drove to Battery Park with his sister and aunt. He entered the car with no hesitation and walked the High Line, went for pizza and drove around Manhattan with his family where he showed almost zero signs of anxiety.

Today, Arjun attends SCO’s community habilitation, partakes in various activities such as volunteering at canned food drives, delivering food to elderly adults, going to the bowling alley, and going to the local church’s gym to play basketball and soccer. Arjun spends quality time with his peers and he is now able to enjoy going out and be among his friends and family. He is also taking road-trips with his parents to Virginia and going on camping trips with his housemates without having anxiety.

Arjun’s breakthrough is the definition of a success story! He continues to thrive, and we are sure that Arjun will continue to work towards more independence and integration into his community.

 

← Back

Supported Single Room Occupancy Residence

The Supportive Single Room Occupancy (SRO) is a residence located on the Ottilie campus in Queens for young adult men and women with both a developmental disability and a serious emotional disturbance. These young adults are not yet ready to make the transition from a structured Residential Treatment Facility or hospital to community-based living and need extra support to make that transition successful. This program is complimented by the Outreach Service Center which provides employment and entitlement assistance along with other supportive services for the SRO residents as well as other dual-diagnosed young adults living in the community.

Who Can Benefit from this Program

Young people who are dual diagnosed (SED/IDD) preparing to transition to the community

Age Criteria

18- 24 years of age

How to Access this Program or Service

Referral to SCO Supported SRO Program.

Related News

Fordham University Highlights Theresa Paplin School’s Dream Factory

May 25, 2023

SCO Awarded $604,000 Ottilie Renovation Grant

March 28, 2019

Arjun’s Story

Overcoming severe anxiety to achieve personal growth at SCO Individual Residential Alternative (IRA)

Read Arjun’s Story

Nicholas’ Story

A boost of confidence with a little help from his friends at SCO's IRA

Read Nicholas’ Story

90%

of residents in our NYC shelters were successfully discharged to stable housing

Support Our Mission

With your gift, you can help strengthen New York families and unlock potential for children and adults with special needs.

Donate Now

Stay in the loop

Subscribe to the SCO Newsletter to hear the latest on SCO’s programs, people, and happenings.